Global solar technology leaders APS and Upsolar are teaming up to offer a turnkey solar financing and installation package for residential customers. The partnership unites high-quality PV modules from Upsolar and advanced microinverter technology from APS to maximize output and accelerate ROI.

SEATTLE — Global solar technology leaders APS and Upsolar are teaming up to offer a turnkey solar financing and installation package for residential customers.

The partnership unites high-quality PV modules from Upsolar and advanced microinverter technology from APS to maximize system output and accelerate homeowners' return on investment.

The package is aimed at homeowners who want to capitalize on the many benefits of solar energy without the commitment of a long-term lease. Upsolar's 20-year Energy Freedom Loan delivers the advantages of system ownership while overcoming the primary barrier to adoption - high upfront cost.

Michael Ludgate, vice president of business development for APS America, hailed the partnership as an outstanding fit between two emergent and complementary forces in the global solar market.

"Upsolar picked APS to partner with because of our unique microinverter solution, both in technology and cost," Ludgate said. "The fact that this program allows anyone to own a solar system is a great option for any homeowner."

The partnership reflects a recent trend in residential solar away from the leasing of solar equipment, in favor of loan options and direct ownership of PV systems. The trend is driven by the declining costs of solar components, including PV modules and inverters, bringing solar investment within reach for homeowners at all levels.

The integrated APS-Upsolar package also allows homeowners to take advantage of strong tax incentives offered by the federal government and many states for solar investment.

Since its founding in 2006, Upsolar has established itself as a leading international developer and producer of high-quality solar photovoltaic modules at competitive prices. The company's expert team is deeply entrenched in both established and emerging PV markets to accelerate global solar energy adoption, with offices in Europe, Asia, Australia and the Americas.

APS was founded in Silicon Valley in 2009, and is now a global leader in the development, manufacturing and marketing of microinverters based on their own proprietary, leading-edge solar technology. APS America, representing APS in the US market, is based near Seattle. APS ranked No. 2 in global market share among leading microinverter suppliers by shipments in 2013 (source: GTM Research).

For information, see www.upsolar.com or www.apsamerica.com.