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www.wbjournal.com Book Of Lists 2015 • Worcester Business Journal 41 S P O N S O R E D B Y I n 2009, three men huddled over a laptop in a tiny office, trying to figure out a way to gain a foothold in the emerging commercial solar business. By adopting a unique business model, launching an educational campaign and assem- bling a core staff of dedicated employees, the trio has moved out of those cramped quarters and into a much larger space, becoming the leading commercial solar company in Massachusetts. As a value-added company, Solect works side- by side with clients throughout the life of a project – and beyond. Its expert staff helps clients decide which system makes sense for their needs, decodes regulations and cuts through administra- tive bureaucracy, and project manages the instal- lation to optimize the client's investment. The partnership does not end there. Once the system has been installed, Solect maintains an ongoing relationship with the client, monitoring the sys- tem post-installation. "We develop customer engagement early on to provide the optimal sys- tem for the needs of our client," Driscoll notes. "Our values are customer-oriented. Our response to any issues differentiates us from other solar companies." Solect's financial acumen means clients make wise decisions that fit within their bud- gets. e firm evaluates a client's typical usage to help determine if owning, leasing or pur- chasing solar energy suits them best. "We con- tinually look for ways to add value for the cli- ent through ongoing research," Driscoll reports. While Solect is pleased with its accomplish- ments in the solar industry (Solar Power World named Solect one of the Top 250 solar contractors in the country), the firm also prides itself on cre- ating jobs and providing a creative work environ- ment. The company employs 22 full-time staffers, as well as up to 30 others who install their prod- ucts. The three Founders work with employees, eliminating a hierarchical structure. Staff is given the opportunity to participate in every aspect of the business from sales to installation, providing them with support throughout the entire process. Solect believes that employees contribute to the growth of the company and empowers them to deliver value to the company. The benefits of solar are obvious: solar energy saves money, makes money, puts people to work and helps the planet. Solect attributes its success in the industry to its business strategy, company culture, demand for high quality workmanship and products, and partnerships with key vendors. "Solar energy is a young industry and we are help- ing to create part of this innovative ride. People, Planet, Profit is our purpose," says Driscoll. n Smart Solar. Smart Business. Le to right: Ken Driscoll, James Dumas, Craig Huntley Biomedical companies ...........................................................42 Clean energy companies ........................................................44 Manufacturers.........................................................................46 Plastics companies .................................................................47 Software and hardware companies .......................................48 & MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY