Our Story
Unmatched Heritage
Nearly four decades of solar breakthroughs, world-record efficiencies, and pioneering clean energy solutions — built to stand the test of time.
Founded in 1985 by Dr. Richard Swanson at Stanford University, the journey began with a singular vision: to engineer the world's most efficient solar cells. With support from the U.S. Department of Energy and the Electric Power Research Institute, the team pioneered back-contact solar cell technology that would go on to set global efficiency records.
Today, stewardship of that legacy lives on under the Premium Renewables brand — a name that represents decades of world-record efficiency achievements, pioneering integrated solar-plus-storage systems, and a relentless commitment to the homeowners we serve.
In 1985, the company that would become Premium Renewables was founded inside Stanford University's labs. Armed with early-stage energy agency grants and a deep belief in the sun's potential, the team pioneered back-contact solar cell technology that would go on to set global efficiency records.
By the 1990s, these high-efficiency solar cells were already powering solar race cars and high-altitude aircraft — proving that high-efficiency technology wasn't just possible, it was transformational.
In 2010, a world-record large-area silicon solar cell efficiency of 24.2% was confirmed by the National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL). This milestone proved what precision engineering could accomplish — and set the standard for the entire industry.
In 2016, the Equinox® System was introduced — the first residential solar solution designed as a fully integrated, seamless system. A single manufacturer. A single warranty. One complete energy experience.
Today, our commitment to cutting-edge technology continues through our partnership with Enphase Energy on advanced storage systems, empowering homeowners with reliable, future-ready clean energy.
Four decades of solar firsts, world records, and industry-defining breakthroughs.
Founded
Dr. Richard Swanson founds the company at Stanford, backed by U.S. Department of Energy grants. The mission: build the world's most efficient solar cells using back-contact cell architecture.
Early Deployment
High-efficiency cells power pioneering solar race cars and high-altitude aircraft — proving the technology's real-world potential far beyond the laboratory.
Growth
A landmark $8 million investment provides the capital needed to accelerate commercialization, scale manufacturing, and bring high-efficiency panels to market nationwide.
Public Markets
The company goes public on the Nasdaq stock exchange, opening new avenues to fund R&D and global expansion. A major milestone in scaling residential solar across the U.S.
World Record
A landmark achievement: NREL confirms a world-record 24.2% efficiency for a large-area silicon wafer solar cell — setting the global standard for photovoltaic performance and proving that premium engineering delivers.
All-In-One System
The industry's first complete home solar solution designed as a single integrated product — from panels to monitoring — with one unified warranty. A defining moment for the residential solar market.
Today
Building on four decades of heritage, Premium Renewables carries forward the spirit of innovation with Enphase-powered storage, industry-leading service, and a commitment to sustainable energy for every homeowner.
We believe clean energy and storage should be accessible to everyone. Premium Renewables provides all-in-one residential solar solutions with personal customer service, a focus on ethical sourcing, and an ongoing effort to minimize environmental impact.
Every system we install is backed by our industry-leading 25-year performance warranty — because our heritage isn't just about the past, it's about the long-term peace of mind we deliver to every homeowner.
Join over a million homeowners who have trusted decades of solar innovation to power their homes and protect their future.