Press Release

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — August 7, 2025 — In an era of soaring energy costs and growing consumer demand for sustainable home solutions, one startup is reshaping the future of roofing—and energy independence.

Energy ReLeaf, a family-owned solar roofing cooperative founded by veteran industry experts, has unveiled the first U.S.-made solar shingle system designed specifically for roofing contractors—no electricians required.

Recently featured on Cheddar TV’s hit entrepreneur show Go Fund Yourself, Energy ReLeaf is making waves by solving a critical gap in the solar adoption curve: accessibility. With an estimated 5 million homes getting new roofs every year—and over half of those homeowners expressing interest in solar—Energy ReLeaf’s patented PV shingles empower roofers to meet that demand without costly specialized labor or outdated infrastructure.

“We kept what we loved about existing solar shingle systems and innovated beyond the parts that held us back,” said Peter Reese, co-founder of Energy ReLeaf. “We simplified the process, patented the system, and made it easy for local roofers to give homeowners a beautiful, energy-producing roof—at a price that makes it a win-win.”

A Breakthrough for Roofers—and the Planet

Energy ReLeaf’s modular PV shingle technology is the only known solar roofing system of its kind in the U.S. that can be installed entirely by trained roofers. Minimal electrician support is needed, reducing installation costs and complexity. Unlike traditional solar panels or expensive all-in-one systems, each Energy ReLeaf shingle can be individually replaced—minimizing repair costs after storm damage.

The system also features a dramatically simplified supply chain, made from 100% reclaimed and domestically sourced materials, and is engineered to meet hurricane-grade wind standards. The result? A longer-lasting roof that generates clean energy and keeps asphalt shingles out of landfills.

The cooperative business model is just as unique. Roofing contractors can become Energy ReLeaf certified through a hands-on training program—earning membership equity, ongoing support, and profit-sharing incentives.

Tapping into a Trillion-Dollar Market

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. solar market is projected to quadruple by 2030. But adoption remains moderate, especially in middle-income markets, where homeowners are often priced out or wary of high-pressure sales tactics.

Energy ReLeaf’s approach bridges that gap by partnering with local, trusted independent contractors—many of whom represent the next generation of skilled labor, including a fast-growing population of Latino-owned businesses.

“We’re not chasing the Silicon Valley unicorn model,” Reese explains. “We’re here to build resilient communities, support small businesses, and make solar work for the masses—not just the early adopters.”

The company has already begun training its first cohort of contractors in Minnesota and Colorado and is actively expanding into new states.

From Hurricane Maria to Your Rooftop

Energy ReLeaf’s roots trace back to the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, when Reese founded the original nonprofit version of the company to deploy microgrids in Puerto Rico. Today, the company’s mission remains grounded in that same ethos: sustainability, equity, and innovation—powered by people.

“Indoor plumbing was once novel. HVAC was once novel. Solar is next,” said Reese. “It’s time to make energy independence standard—and we’re building the tools to make that possible, one rooftop at a time.”

A Boost from the Spotlight

The opportunity to appear on Go Fund Yourself gave Energy ReLeaf a national platform to share its mission with investors, homeowners, and contractors alike. The exposure will help amplify their message around energy equity and cooperative ownership, but also positioned the company for significant momentum in both fundraising and sales growth.

As the company opens its seed round, Energy ReLeaf is actively engaging with values-aligned investors and partners to scale operations, expand manufacturing, and bring its revolutionary solar shingles to thousands of new rooftops nationwide. Early contractor interest has already translated into pipeline potential across multiple states.

“We see this as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform roofing and redefine how solar is delivered,” said Reese. “With the right partners, we can move faster, reach more communities, and make clean energy the standard—not the exception.”

Learn More

To learn more about Energy ReLeaf’s patented PV shingles, cooperative membership, or to become an installation partner, visit www.energyreleaf.com.

To watch their pitch on Go Fund Yourself, visit: https://www.cheddar.com/media/go-fund-yourself-a-new-safety-wearable-making-solar-power-more-accessible/

To support Energy ReLeaf’s mission, visit: https://wefunder.com/energy.releaf.1