Kristal Needham’s path to founding Freedom Solar Energy began in 2009, during a turbulent time for both the housing and pool industry. Solar pool heating, however, had already been a staple for over 40 years, providing owners with an effective, energy-efficient way to heat their pools. Needham saw this niche as the perfect opportunity to make her mark, especially as government rebates and incentives helped raise awareness about solar energy’s potential.
Needham’s career began with a well-established company in the solar industry. Over time, she worked her way through various roles, including appointment setting, marketing, PR, service and project management, accounting and sales. When that company eventually merged with another, Needham was presented with a chance to join a new venture, but she made the pivotal decision to return to her roots, partnering with the original manufacturer that had taught her so much. It wasn’t long before she decided to branch out and start her own company — Freedom Solar Energy.
Now, with 15 years of industry experience and more than 500 installations under her belt, Needham is proud to run a family-owned and operated business.
For Needham, the best part of her work is providing pool professionals and their clients the chance to maximize their enjoyment of their pools.
“I love being able to offer the chance for people to get the most use out of their pool by extending their swimming season 6-9 months of the year,” she says. “We help people save money and focus on the most important thing — making memories with their family and enjoying the biggest investment of their home and pool.”
Needham’s goal is to continue offering high-quality service, growing her company while educating the pool industry about the benefits of solar energy.
“I am still surprised to this day that some in the industry do not have a full understanding of what solar can do to help their clients save money and enjoy their pools,” she says. “My main goal is to provide education and show the excitement of how affordable and reliable solar can be to everyone in the industry.”
