GigaWatt Inc. has opened a public investment round as rising electricity prices and grid reliability concerns continue to push homeowners toward energy independence. The California-based solar platform is offering the raise through Regulation Crowdfunding, giving both accredited and non-accredited investors access to its next phase of growth.
After nearly 20 years operating in the residential solar market, GigaWatt is positioning itself between two extremes that frustrate many homeowners today: expensive turnkey solar installers and low-cost DIY kits that often lack meaningful support. The company is now focused on scaling its own branded hardware and software to address that gap more efficiently.
Why the Timing Matters
Residential electricity prices are up sharply since 2021, while federal solar incentives are gradually stepping down. At the same time, grid congestion and outages are becoming more common. These pressures are driving demand for solar and battery systems that homeowners can deploy at lower cost while still receiving reliable guidance and post-installation support.
GigaWatt’s approach centers on integrated, permit-ready solar-plus-storage kits designed for DIY customers and small installers. By combining hardware, software, and service into a single platform, the company aims to reduce complexity and improve long-term system performance.
How the Capital Will Be Used
Proceeds from the raise are expected to support development and certification of GigaWatt’s Real Goods branded inverters, batteries, and solar panels, along with continued buildout of the Real Goods Hub. This centralized software platform is designed to connect installed hardware with diagnostics, customer support, and system monitoring.
The company also plans to incorporate artificial intelligence into the platform to improve troubleshooting, performance optimization, and service response times. In the DIY solar market, where post-sale support can be a major pain point, this capability could improve scalability and customer retention.
Additional funds are expected to support research and development, engineering, and sales and marketing, with the goal of expanding distribution of fully integrated systems nationwide.
Operating History and Brand Footprint
Founded in 2006, GigaWatt operates a multi-brand platform that includes Unbound Solar, GoGreen Solar, AltE Store, and Real Goods. Since 2019, the company has installed thousands of solar kits across the U.S. and has generated more than $64 million in revenue. Management reports positive net income in both 2023 and 2024, alongside sustained gross margins.
The Real Goods brand, acquired in 2023, brings historical credibility to the platform. It was the first company to sell solar panels directly to the public in the U.S. in 1978 and remains a recognizable name in residential renewables.
Offering Structure
The raise is being conducted under Regulation Crowdfunding through StartEngine, with a minimum investment of $500 and a maximum offering size of up to $1.235 million. Investors are being offered non-voting Class B common stock, subject to applicable regulatory limits.
As with all early-stage and growth investments, participation carries risk, and prospective investors are encouraged to review the company’s Form C and offering materials carefully.
Bigger Picture for Investors
For investors tracking residential energy, GigaWatt offers exposure to long-term trends in distributed power, grid resilience, and consumer-driven electrification. Rather than competing directly with large installers, the company is focused on infrastructure, logistics, and enablement for a growing DIY and prosumer segment that values cost control and flexibility.
If successful, this model could benefit from rising adoption of home batteries, increased interest in off-grid capability, and continued pressure on traditional utility systems.
Forward-looking information is subject to risks and uncertainties. Read full DISCLAIMER.
