Green Planet Solar
your trusted solar solutions provider
Green Planet Solar
your trusted solar solutions provider
Why Green Planet Solar
Green Planet Solar equips homes and businesses with a clean, non-polluting energy source that saves money. Previous projects have earned us a reputation for on-schedule completion, return on investment with the final product exceeding expectations, and integrity. Our work is guaranteed for 10 years and the solar panels are guaranteed for at least 20 years.
Our team will lead you through every step of the process – from site analysis and design to installation and maintenance of your system. We make it easy for you by preparing and submitting all the necessary permitting and rebate paperwork.
“Green Planet Solar is a solar energy provider, equipping buildings to harness a clean, non-polluting energy source. Our customers include home-owners, businesses and government facilities. We pride ourselves on professional design, quality installation and trustworthy service.” – Dennis, Green Planet Solar
Our Commitment
“We believe in creating a sustainable economy that’s in line with what people and the environment need – and that’s renewable energy. When it comes to powering homes or businesses, solar energy saves you money and ensures a cleaner, safer world. We have been committed to our customers and community since day one, and it comes through in our professional design, quality installation and trustworthy service. We are proud to have a reputation not only for a guaranteed return on your investment, but also for integrity, honesty and great value that starts from the very beginning with your site evaluation.” – Dennis, Green Planet Solar
The Management
Green Planet Solar was founded in 2008 by three close friends and savvy business partners. They realized that green technology had evolved to the point where the economic case for solar energy was compelling. Their collective vision is to mainstream solar electricity through commercial and residential construction development.
Dennis McNell, Co-founder and CEO
Dennis has a 20-year background in finance, and began his career as an equity derivatives trader. He has been integral in the start-up of many successful companies and demonstrated his ability to hatch new ideas, implement corporate strategy and navigate new business processes. In 2006, after selling his online brokerage company to e*Trade, Dennis evaluated his options and realized that mainstreaming solar energy aligned with his passions and financial objectives. He believes in the social ramifications of solar energy, as ecology will no longer compete with capitalism: “Green Planet Solar can save people money while creating clean, non-polluting energy.” Dennis continually receives training from industry manufacturers on system design and financial analysis. Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Dennis has lived in San Francisco, London, Paris and Hong Kong. He currently resides in San Rafael and is a proud parent of two active daughters.
James (Jimmy) McGowan, Co-founder and COO
Jimmy is an entrepreneur who has built a successful electrical contracting company. His focus on detailed customer service has garnered many recurring contracts with small to medium companies as well as Fortune 500 companies. Jimmy is a hands-on businessman, personally overseeing solar installations and ensuring the integrity of each project. Initially learning about solar PV by building an array for his houseboat, Jimmy leveraged his knowledge to build a successful solar company. Jimmy enjoys toying with machines and regularly adds new solar inventions to his ever-expanding treasure trove of tools. His friends say, “If it was built by man, Jimmy can fix it!”
Theresa (Terry) Benecchi, Co-founder and CFO
Terry has nearly 20 years of experience in finance and accounting which culminated in her role as President of a successful telecommunications data company. Throughout her career, she has been intimately involved in project management which perfectly suits her to the role of overseeing day to day operations at Green Planet Solar. Terry has her LEED and RCDD (Registered Communications Distribution Designer) certifications. “After watching the economy during a recession, my partners and I realized how important solar energy is for companies of all sizes in order to save money on their utility bills while also preserving the environment.” Terry is involved in all aspects of the business from finance and accounting to on-site job installs to the customized designing of systems. Outside of work, Terry enjoys the outdoors through boating and gardening. A community advocate, she is actively involved in her daughter’s school.
Bill Werstler, Director of Sales
Bill brings 20+ years of sales, marketing management and ownership experience from the national advertising/media industry to the Green Planet management team. Most recently, since 2009, Bill has enjoyed a smooth and successful transition to the residential and small commercial solar energy integrator industry with experiences in both a local start up integrator and also as the local area consultant for the national solar energy company REC Solar. The diversity of these experiences has provided and extensive knowledge of all solar related products, up to date industry changes and also allows Bill to quickly and professionally identify and deliver a proposal for the most appropriately sized energy system for the home and business owner. Bill is a 20 year Marin county resident with his wife and two girls and enjoys all outdoor activities.