EFS Energy

04/16/2026

We don't do solar because it's easy. We do it because it's hard… And because it pays.

Tariffs, interconnection risk, tightening incentives -- it's a complicated moment. But the demand for new, fast energy has never been stronger, and the projects that move forward right now are being built by developers who already did the hard work of pricing in the uncertainty.

I wrote about it on the EFS blog. Worth a read if you're thinking about a commercial solar or storage project.

04/07/2026

Solar equipment prices are up 15-20% this year — and the July 4 deadline to lock in the full 30% federal tax credit is 95 days away.

Our April newsletter breaks down what's driving costs higher, what the safe harbor deadline actually requires, and who needs to be paying attention right now.

Link in the first comment.

Commercial Solar Energy for Illinois and Missouri Businesses Your Partner in Solar Partner with EFS Energy- your trusted commercial solar panel installers delivering long-term savings for car dealerships, farms, schools, and manufacturers. Contact Us Experts In The Field Providing lasting returns to...

03/26/2026

National solar companies come and go. Local expertise is what actually protects your investment.

For 15 years, EFS Energy has focused almost exclusively on Missouri and Illinois, mastering the incentive programs, utility relationships, and engineering challenges that are unique to our region.

650+ installations. $13M+ in incentives secured. A local team that stays with you long after the system is turned on.

If you're a business owner thinking about solar, you deserve a partner who knows your market, not just your roof.

12/30/2025

Cheers to a crazy and wonderful 2025.

EFS Energy has been building solar through enough market cycles to know that challenges come and go—but well-designed projects and disciplined ex*****on endure.

This past year reinforced what we’ve always believed: strong partnerships, thoughtful engineering, and doing the work the right way still matter. That foundation gives us confidence and momentum as we move forward.

We look ahead to continuing to serve our communities with renewable energy solutions that strengthen the grid, reduce long-term operating costs, and deliver durable value for system owners.

Thank you to our clients and partners who continue to place their trust in EFS Energy.

Still here. Still building.

Happy New Year!

11/19/2025

"We had heard about solar tax incentives from the state and local government. EFS had a good knowledge of how the Illinois program worked. How to submit it and follow up with it." - Mike Auffenberg, owner of Auffenberg car dealerships.

We work on behalf of our clients to secure federal tax credits, state incentives, and depreciation benefits to optimize their solar investment. Contact us to learn more about the incentives available for your business.

11/11/2025

As we celebrate and honor our veterans today, let us put on the armor of God and be courageous!

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
Ephesians 6, 10-20

10/09/2025

🔆 Curious if your roof or property is right for solar? Here’s how it works:

1️⃣ Consultation: We assess your energy needs and roof or ground suitability using advanced shade and site analysis.
2️⃣ Design: We customize a solar system to maximize savings, with optional battery storage for added energy independence and backup power.
3️⃣ Permitting & Incentives: We handle all the paperwork for federal, state, and utility programs.
4️⃣ Installation: Our NABCEP-certified team ensures a smooth, professional setup.
5️⃣ Grid Connection: Your system connects to the grid with net metering, earning you credits for the energy you produce.

🌞 Learn more about how solar could work for you — and start exploring the long-term benefits of clean energy today.

10/07/2025

Employee Spotlight: Eric Swillinger, Chief Operating Officer

We’re thrilled to feature Eric Swillinger, our Chief Operating Officer here at EFS Energy!

Eric brings over 12 years of experience in the solar energy starting with the Co-Founding of StraightUp Solar in 2008 where he was Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer.
With 20 years of business operations experience having held leadership roles across several high-growth organizations in vastly different industries from Marketing and Advertising to Non-Profit to Insurance.
Eric’s core focus is on business operations and are on establishing process improvements and strengthening internal continuity.

At EFS, Eric’s favorite part of his job is working across all departments to ensure continuity between teams and support staff in their daily challenges. He’s passionate about fostering the unique, people-centered culture that defines EFS, where every voice is valued and teamwork drives successful projects.

Outside of work, Eric is a dedicated dad, coach, and sports enthusiast. Whether he’s playing pickleball, cheering on his kids, or kicking our butts in a go-kart race, Eric brings the same energy and focus that make him such a vital part of our team.

We’re grateful for the leadership, heart, and operational excellence Eric brings to EFS every day. Join us in celebrating him! 👏☀️

10/03/2025

EFS Energy client Wehmeyer Seed in Macoutah IL, saw a return on their commercial solar investment in less than 3 years. Now, the system is providing $30,000 in annual energy savings.

Want to see how much your business can save? Contact us for a no obligation quote today.

09/19/2025

SOLAR TAX CREDIT EXPIRING
If you want a 30% tax credit on your solar project, you need to get started now! After this year, that incentive will no longer be available to new projects.

"We had heard about solar tax incentives from the state and local government. EFS had a good knowledge of how the Illinois program worked. How to submit it and follow up with it." - Mike Auffenberg, owner of Auffenberg car dealerships.

We work on behalf of our clients to secure federal tax credits, grants, and state programs to optimize their solar investment. Contact us to learn more about the incentives available for your business.

08/27/2025

"With some of the bigger national companies, we felt like a number to them. We felt more comfortable with somebody who had intimate knowledge with our state." - Mike Auffenberg, owner of Auffenberg car dealerships.

Feeling like just a number? Our local expertise offers a personal touch. We’ll take the lead in navigating complex issues and approvals to get your system connected to the grid seamlessly. Contact us to learn more today!

08/21/2025

Are you ready to lock in that tax credit for your solar project? We have the latest guidance with IRS Notice 2025-42 and can guide you through the process. The good news is that there is still time to lock it in. Take action now to secure your incentives before they are gone.

We are your local experts
15+ years serving IL & MO commercial businesses and farms with solar solutions. We provide expertise you can trust: high-quality installations, navigation of financial incentives, and a consultative approach. Contact us today!