We bring deep technical knowledge in the development, financing, construction, operations, and maintenance of solar projects to provide complete turnkey solutions for our customers: companies, institutions, and even government entities.
Each member of our senior staff has at least 10+ years of experience in solar energy and related fields. We are deeply committed to realizing the success of your solar energy project
Leadership
Keith Peltzman, President, Founder, Business Development 
In 2007, Keith founded Independence Solar in New Jersey and strategically led the company’s full-service, high-quality commercial solar focus while expanding its presence throughout the Northeast.
Keith’s guidance and market-driven decision-making skills have ensured the Independence Solar team is experienced and adept in the growing solar landscape. Based in the Mid-Atlantic region, Keith manages business development initiatives in this area, including partnerships with third-party influencers.
Keith has over 16 years of experience in solar development, including completing one of the largest roof-top solar installations in the country, the 10.1 MW Holt Marine Terminal in Gloucester City, New Jersey.
Prior to Independence Solar, Keith worked for Allco Renewables, US Solar Finance, and Verterra Renewables, managing the financial analysis and development of over $300 million of solar, wind, and biomass projects. Keith holds a B.S. from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and an M.B.A. from MIT, where he focused on the economics of solar.
James Schwartz, Vice President, Business Development
James has more than 20 years of experience in the
development, financing, construction, and operation of renewable energy projects.
His ability to lead Independence Solar through the complex needs of each large-scale commercial solar project while safeguarding the bottom line is further realized by his focus on utilizing efficient, new technologies as they emerge.
James leads the New England region team, where he developed and spearheaded the construction of one of the largest community solar projects in Massachusetts.
Before co-owning Independence Solar, James was responsible for developing commercial PV projects for Spire Solar. James also led the installation of performance monitoring systems for more than 3,000 MW of wind energy projects as a sales manager for Second Wind, Inc. James holds a B.A. from Colorado College and an M.B.A. from MIT.
Team
Thor Thomforde, Construction Manager
Thor came to the Independence Solar team eight years ago with an over 15-year solar energy background. He worked with Real Goods, Alteris, Solar Works, and Advanced Energy during his extensive career in the industry.
Before working in solar, Thor worked as an Electrical Engineer for more than ten years, so we rely on his keen eye to oversee every detail of our solar energy installation projects. His thorough review of blueprints and electrical drawings ensures accuracy and compliance with each project’s unique guidelines and standards.
Thor’s comprehensive inspections of all sub-contractor work make him a key component in affirming our company’s commitment to high quality.
Colleen Marr, Project Coordinator
As an Operational Compliance Auditor for Bank of America, Colleen's background translates well to the high level of organization and attention to detail needed for the extensive, often-changing utility interconnection process and state solar incentive programs.
Colleen’s extensive administrative skills were honed in multiple industries, including a family-owned construction management company, a marketing technology corporation, and a business management consulting firm. She utilizes her talents to support all aspects of complex solar projects.
Colleen holds a B.S. in Business Administration.
Cynthia DelChiaro, Office Manager
Cynthia joined the company in 2016 with an administrative background in the legal and construction industries, which she utilizes to ensure Independence Solar’s books remain accurate and invoicing is presented timely while responding promptly to time-sensitive requests from the team.
