Earthlight Technologies Featured on WFSB Channel 3
Earthlight Technologies • August 7, 2026
Earthlight Technologies recently welcomed WFSB Channel 3 to our headquarters in Ellington, Connecticut. Scot Haney sat down with two of the five Schneider brothers who own the company, co-founder and CEO Sam Schneider and COO Jake Schneider, to learn how a family business started in 2008 grew into one of Connecticut's leading solar and energy solutions companies. The segment covers everything from solar affordability and battery storage to a tour of our custom-built net-zero facility.
Watch the full segment below, or keep reading for the highlights and answers to the most common questions covered in the interview.
A Family-Owned Solar Company Since 2008
Earthlight was founded in Ellington, Connecticut in 2008 by the Schneider family. Today, Sam and his four brothers own the company, supported by a full team of 170 employees. As Sam explained to WFSB, that family foundation shapes how every project is handled: "One of our core values is we do the right thing. That's where our trust is built."
Unlike installers who subcontract their work, Earthlight is a fully integrated energy company. Our in-house crews handle residential solar and commercial solar, battery backup storage, EV charging, and energy efficiency, making Earthlight a true one-stop shop for green energy. You can learn more about our story and leadership on our About Us page.
Think You Can't Afford Solar? Think Again
One of the biggest topics in the segment was affordability. As Jake told WFSB, one of the most common misconceptions is "I don't have the money to put into that." In reality, homeowners have several ways to go solar with no money down.
With a power purchase agreement (PPA), you don't purchase the system itself. Instead, you simply agree to purchase the power it produces at a locked-in rate that stays fixed for 25 years, while utility rates in Connecticut currently sit around $0.30 per kilowatt hour and continue to climb. If you prefer to own your system, it can pay for itself in as little as eight years depending on your home. Explore all of our financing options to see which path fits your budget.
The #1 Battery Installer in Connecticut
Batteries were another highlight of the interview. A home battery works like a generator for your house, keeping your lights on during outages while storing the clean energy your panels produce. Earthlight was recently recognized as the number one battery installer in the state of Connecticut, and lease and PPA options are now available for batteries as well, along with state incentives that make them surprisingly affordable.
Help for "Orphaned" Solar Systems
Do you have solar panels on your roof from a company that's long gone? You're not alone. Earthlight's large in-house service department actively works on what we call orphan systems, panels installed by companies that have since disappeared, leaving homeowners with no one to call. Whether your system wasn't installed properly or has developed failures, our service team is here to help, even if you weren't originally our customer.
Fast, Professional Installations
A typical Earthlight crew includes five people: a licensed electrician, an apprentice, and three roof specialists. For an average-sized home of about 30 solar panels, the crew can complete the installation in a single day, with the utmost attention to quality so your system performs for 25 to 30 years.
Tour Our Net-Zero Headquarters
The Schneider brothers didn't just build a solar company; they built their own net-zero headquarters. Completed in 2022 and general-contracted by the brothers themselves, the Ellington facility produces 100% of its own electricity from renewable solar. Families stop by weekly with their electric bills asking how to eliminate them, and the team loves showing visitors around. The facility is open Monday through Friday, and you can also find Earthlight at the Big E, right next to the barnyard, where the team offers special incentives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns Earthlight Technologies?
Earthlight Technologies is a family-owned company founded in Ellington, Connecticut in 2008. It is owned by the five Schneider brothers, including co-founder and CEO Sam Schneider and COO Jake Schneider, and employs a team of 170 people.
Can I get solar panels with no money down?
Yes. Through a power purchase agreement (PPA), you sign an agreement to purchase the power produced by the system on your roof rather than buying the system itself. There is no upfront cost, and your electricity rate is locked in for 25 years.
How long does a residential solar installation take?
For an average-sized home with about 30 solar panels, an Earthlight crew of five can typically complete the installation in one day.
How long do solar panels last?
Properly installed solar panels are built to last 25 to 30 years, which is why quality installation matters so much for protecting your investment.
What is a home battery and is it affordable?
A home battery works like a generator, keeping your home powered during outages. Earthlight, the number one battery installer in Connecticut, offers purchase, lease, and PPA options for batteries, plus available incentives that make them very affordable.
My solar company went out of business. Can Earthlight service my system?
Yes. Earthlight's in-house service department regularly repairs and maintains "orphaned" solar systems installed by companies that are no longer in business, even if the system didn't originate with us.
Ready to Take Control of Your Energy Costs?
Whether you want to eliminate your electric bill, back up your home with battery storage, or get help with an existing solar system, the Earthlight team is ready to help. Visit us at 128 West Road in Ellington, stop by our booth at the Big E, or contact us today for a free consultation and find out how much you could save.
