How Kelly Wilson Led Apollo Energy’s Rise to Renewable Leader
The renewable energy industry is booming, but starting a successful company in this crowded space takes more than just good timing. That’s where Kelly Wilson and Apollo Energy come in. Wilson leveraged his home improvement experience to launch a solar sales platform that provides genuine value for both homeowners and employees. Through determination, calculated risk-taking, and putting people first, Wilson transformed Apollo Energy from a solo endeavor into a leading renewable provider.
Pivoting from Traditional Construction to Solar
Wilson spent nearly a decade honing his skills in home improvement before making the leap to solar. He quickly realized renewable energy offered immense benefits beyond just installation jobs. “This is a wonderful industry poised for tremendous growth,” said Wilson. “It provides savings, independence, and security for homeowners while generating energy in an eco-friendly fashion that helps everyone.”
However, Wilson identified a need in the market for a company prioritizing transparency and quality service over sales quotas. After building a marketing team for another organization, Wilson decided to start Apollo Energy to provide homeowners with a genuine solar solution.
Launching Apollo with Zero Loans and 100% Ownership
Many entrepreneurs turn to investors or loans to fund their startups. But Wilson took a different approach by bootstrapping Apollo Energy. “Our whole organization was started with nothing more than my savings account,” explained Wilson. “We have no loans or debt and are 100% privately owned.” Wilson invested his commissions from early solar sales back into Apollo. He focused on building a remote team that aligned with the company’s values. Wilson knew relying solely on his own funds was risky but provided important autonomy. “Burning the boats to start our company motivated me to succeed since I eliminated other options,” he said.
Putting People First
According to Wilson, Apollo’s employee-focused approach is central to their success. “Be extremely selective of who you work with,” advised Wilson. “That core leadership team can make or break your organization in the early stages.” Wilson stands firmly behind Apollo’s commitments to employees. “Nothing will kill their motivation to work with you more than you promising them things that you don’t deliver on,” he said. Wilson built trust by keeping his word while empowering staff with ownership and flexibility. Apollo also generously gives back to communities through donations and volunteer work. The company lives up to its motto “people before panels” in all aspects of the business.
Staying Customer-Focused
In the fast-paced renewable sphere, Wilson recognized the dangers of prioritizing growth over clients. That’s why Apollo maintains a commitment to personalized service and education for each homeowner. “We aim to become the top solar sales platform in the U.S., but we never want to lose sight of what matters most – providing value and care to our customers,” explained Wilson. “We take the time to understand each homeowner’s unique needs so we can deliver the right solution.” The company’s five-star customer reviews prove their customer-centric process works. Homeowners rave about Apollo’s consultative approach and extensive solar expertise.
Rapid Growth Backed by Stellar Reputation
Apollo’s investments in employees and clients have paid off with rapid expansion. In just two years, the company has grown to over 60 employees strong across 19 states. Apollo completes $1 million in solar installations every month. Their reputation for excellence precedes them. Apollo has already surpassed competitors who have been in business for over a decade. Wilson notes their seasoned team of industry experts and early adopters sets them apart. Homeowners trust Apollo to maximize savings while staying on the cutting edge.
Looking to the Future – Commercial and Nationwide
With exceptional traction so far, Apollo has bold plans to ramp up expansion. The company recently moved into the commercial solar space to take on large-scale projects. “We can now accommodate installations of all sizes for residential and commercial clients,” said Wilson. Nationwide reach is also on the horizon. “We aim to become the top solar sales platform across the entire U.S.,” noted Wilson. The company’s remote structure primes them for swift national growth. As Apollo continues to broaden its footprint under Wilson’s leadership, their core values remain unchanged. “We’ll always stay true to our founding commitment of being transparent and genuine,” promised Wilson. “Our customers and employees come first, last, and always.” Wilson envisions a future where Apollo facilitates mass adoption of renewable energy across America. But no matter their size, Wilson insists the company culture will stay rooted in creating win-win solutions.
The Takeaway: Keep People at the Center
Kelly Wilson and Apollo Energy demonstrate how starting a successful business often requires an unconventional approach. By bootstrapping from day one and keeping control, Wilson ensured the company stayed true to its purpose. He took bold risks but focused relentlessly on creating value for teammates and customers. Now Apollo is poised for huge growth thanks to Wilson’s farsighted and human-centric leadership style. Wilson sums up his entrepreneurial journey so far simply: “If you take care of your people, the profits will follow.” For those looking to build something meaningful in renewable energy or any industry, Apollo Energy sets the gold standard. Kelly Wilson exemplifies how keeping people at the center will ultimately fuel sustainable success.
To learn more visit Kelly’s website apolloenergycompany.com and connect with them on their social media.
