Karen Nimetz
2025-03-21 · 4 min read
Since 2014, Powur has been on a mission to accelerate renewable energy adoption worldwide — and Laguna Beach's own Rick Santa Maria is bringing their cloud-based, no-warehouse solar model right to your doorstep.
Since 2014, Powur has been on a mission to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy worldwide. During that time, the residential solar company — founded by CEO Jonathan Budd — has rocketed to success with over 10,000 installations and become the first solar company to offset 100% of emissions from the solar manufacturing process.
Powur's impressive accolades include being ranked number 43 on Inc. Magazine's annual Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing companies in America in 2022. That distinction comes as no surprise: the company is just as dedicated to environmental preservation and customer care as it is to providing top-notch solar energy systems.
The superior customer service can easily be attributed to the thorough training that all company employees and consultants receive. Rick Santa Maria, a Residential Solar Consultant with Powur and a resident of Arch Beach Heights, says each consultant is guided by a company-certified mentor until they have proven their knowledge and expertise in the field.
"Every customer is assigned their own dedicated project manager, who assesses their utility bill and future energy needs before crafting a custom savings proposal for the home. This way we never oversell or under power a property."
Skyrocketing energy bills and sole reliance on power grids have inspired many to choose solar. Santa Maria notes the safety and security benefits that solar offers:
"If someone in the home uses medical equipment that relies on electricity and you experience a power outage, that could pose a serious risk to their health and wellbeing."
He also points out the financial dimension:
"When you purchase a home, you are automatically assigned to the local utility company. The rates are set and you cannot negotiate that price. With a home solar system, you gain some of that control back."
The federal tax credit of 30% provides a great incentive and can help defray installation costs. Those who do not qualify for the tax credit, due to limited tax liability, can take advantage of several loan programs and lease options.
As the first 100% virtual, residential solar company in the cloud, Powur provides affordable and customized solar solutions to homeowners in a unique way.
"We don't have warehouses, installation trucks or crews. We have vetted the best-in-class service providers and installers all under one cloud-based app program which allows us to do business anywhere in the world, as long as there is an Internet connection."
Powur's world-class, end-to-end solar sales enablement and product fulfillment platform empowers the entire ecosystem — sellers, installers, homeowners, and Powur alike. And their all-encompassing 30-year Powur Care Warranty covers everything: labor, workmanship, and parts replacement. Powur also offers a roofing service for clients wanting to upgrade their roof surface before installing solar panels.
What do you love about Laguna Beach?
I love the complete diversity of the available beach coves. From Heisler Park all the way down to Thousand Steps, it's always a treat to revisit them from time to time.
What is your favorite Laguna local spot?
My favorite local spot is the Lost Pier Cafe at Aliso Creek Beach. The views are stunning, and the food is really good and underrated.
What is something every Laguna resident should experience?
Every Laguna resident should take in the Pageant of the Masters and the Sawdust Festival. They are always an amazing time.
For quotes and more information, visit powur.com/rick.santamaria.
