Powering Connectivity:
ProTek Communications Expands with Solar

Challenge: Energy Reliability is Essential for Communications Companies

ProTek Communications is a family-owned communications company that relies on consistent, reliable power to deliver internet service across Southern Illinois. As the small business expanded, rising utility costs and dependence on a single power provider created long-term challenges, especially for a company where uptime is critical.

Solution: A Scalable Commercial Solar System Built for Reliability

To gain more control over energy costs and improve long-term reliability, ProTek partnered with StraightUp Solar to install a commercial solar solution across multiple locations. The project included both a rooftop array and a ground-mounted array, designed to work together as a single energy strategy. In total, StraightUp Solar installed a 46.55 kW (DC) commercial solar system, sized to offset nearly all of the company’s on-site electrical usage.

The rooftop system maximized production from existing building space, while the ground-mounted array added capacity to meet energy demand — all without disrupting daily operations.

Results: Powerful ROI Reinvested into the Business

Together, the systems generate more than 63,000 kWh of electricity annually, offsetting approximately 99% of their energy usage and significantly reducing ProTek’s reliance on the local utility grid.

Beyond energy production, the financial performance of the systems delivered strong first-year savings, short payback periods, and an estimated $220K in long-term energy bill savings. This frees up capital that ProTek can reinvest into expanding internet access rather than covering rising power costs.

Throughout the project, StraightUp Solar managed engineering, installation, and coordination across locations, providing clear communication and a smooth process from start to finish. The result is a commercial solar installation that supports ProTek’s operational needs today while offering predictable energy costs and greater energy independence for the future.

Then when it came time to place residential solar on his new home in Marion, Illinois, he turned to StraightUp Solar as a trusted partner once again.