In the face of rising energy costs and the looming threat of power outages due to extreme weather like hurricanes, many homeowners are turning to more sustainable, reliable energy solutions like solar and battery backup.
Jake Swank, a resident of Rockledge, Florida, and a disabled U.S. Army veteran, found his answer with Sunnova. In wake of Hurricanes Milton and Helene, his story highlights the importance of adaptive energy services in ensuring stability and resiliency in our homes.*
Jake’s Florida Solar Journey
Jake bought his house in Rockledge because it matched everything he was looking for – including an open floor plan, a lanai and a pool, all in a great neighborhood. A former military man who enjoys problem-solving, he’s a man who appreciates planning and predictability.
In a state where 90% of homes use electricity for heating and A/C, it’s no surprise that energy demand in Florida is 7X greater than its supply. This stress on the grid is often accompanied by fluctuating electricity rates. Jake liked the fact that, with Sunnova solar, he’s locked into a stable rate for the next 25 years.
Just like I took action to join the military, I’ve taken action to help try to save the planet. 
One of the other challenges of being in Florida is hurricane season and, with that, the potential for power loss. To solve this, homeowners have a few options, like a portable or standby generator, or a rooftop solar system with battery backup.*
After comparing prices and weighing the pros and cons, Jake chose solar and battery backup because he was able to solve the power outage problem, help the environment, get a consistent bill and not have to worry about it for the 25 years.
Local Reach, National Support
After landing on solar and battery storage as the solution, Jake started looking around for installers. He found Sunnova through one of our local solar dealers.
He set up an appointment to talk with an energy expert who was well-versed in explaining how the system worked, answering his questions and walking him through the process. Having 25 years of Sunnova system protection was the sweetener that sealed the deal.
If a company’s willing to back you and your system for 25 years, that kind of says a lot. Combining the local presence of a dealer with the national recognition of Sunnova gave Jake a sense of security. He had heard of too many fly-by-night solar companies that come in, sell a bunch of solar systems and then take off. He felt a lot safer doing business with a stable, publicly traded company.
Jake's Solar Install Process
The process for Jake to get his home solar and battery backup installed was extremely easy. His dealer assigned him a project manager who kept him informed of everything along the way – things he needed to sign, obstacles to be aware of, etc.
They coordinated everything. All Jake had to do was monitor his email and, if he had a question, reach out to the project manager.
A year and a half after installation, his system still performed phenomenal.
One example of Sunnova customer service in action – Jake had an issue with his battery, called our support center and had his questions answered right away. They even called back a couple hours later to ensure the problem was resolved. It’s that level of customer service that makes Jake a Sunnova customer for life.
The install teams...were very respectful of my property. Treated it as if it were their own. Ready for the Storms Ahead
When storm season does hit Florida and he sees all his neighbors scrambling to get ready, Jake is less worried.
His solar and battery backup system also helps with his job as an IT manager. When the power goes out, so does his internet. Now, as long as his solar and battery are supplying power, he doesn’t have that problem, so it’s also a benefit for his employer.*
During Hurricanes Milton and Helene, homeowners with Sunnova solar and battery backup benefitted from battery power for an average of 25-26 hours in the seven days after each storm’s landfall, while millions of people were without power. 98% of customer systems remained intact during the storms.
Jake used to think solar wasn’t for him. In his mind, he thought you had to be rich or a tree hugger to get it. In reality, it’s something that the everyday person can afford and should seriously consider.
They prove that they’re all about the customer...what more could you ask? Ready to make the sunshine work for you?
