Personal References
From "Linked In"

Ray Darby, President
Sustainable Energy Group Inc.

Mechanical Engineering, License #21982
General Contracting, License #868816

Mary Margaretich
Hired Ray for Alternative Energy advice in 2010
Top qualities: Great Results, Personable, Expert
“Ray Darby is the most knowledgeable person I have ever hired. He did a complete energy audit for my home and a comprehensive proposal for alternative energy sources for my home. I intend to use Ray for any of my solar/ alternative energy needs and I will recommend him to anyone needing those services. He is a very nice person to work with too.”

Paul Racko
Hired Ray for Renewable energy systems engineering in 2006, and hired him more than once
Top qualities:
Great Results, Personable, Expert
“Ray designed and installed my home photovoltaic array, solar hot water system, and hydronic heating manfold system. Friendly, highly knowledgeable, detail-oriented, on-time, and quality workmanship at a reasonable price. I recommend my clients to Ray and the Sustainable Energy Group for all their alternative energy needs.” 

Scott Hickman
Hired Ray as a Solar Energy Contractor in 2009 and hired him more than once
Top qualities: Expert, Good Value, Creative
“We had Ray install solar PV and an advanced evaporative cooling system on our home, as well as tighten up our ductwork.. He really was a thoughtful contractor, looking out for our best interests during the work, and he was always open to input from me as to how to solve problems that came up during the process. For example, we brainstormed how to use the existing AC ducting to deliver the air from the new cooler; it worked out really well. Most contractors aren't very open to suggestions from clients.”

Stacey Lamothe
Hired Ray as a consultant
“Ray Darby is a leader of his industry. He is a wealth of knowledge, writes the "Going Green" column for the Union and is constantly researching energy issues & options. His hobbies are outdoor activities, gardening, working on his electric vehicles and blogging about energy issues. The guy really walks his talk:) I would refer him wholeheartedly!”

Brian Bisnett, AICP, ASLA
Hired Ray as a alternative energy engineer in 1989
Top qualities: Personable, Expert, Creative

“I first hired Ray as an alternative energy consultant decades before any of us had even heard the term "alternative energy". I learned much from him then and I continue to learn from him every time we work together. Ray is a knowledgeable and creative guy who never fails to think outside the box, and whose insights invariably add value to our projects.” 

Suzanne Chapel
Suzanne hired Ray for Solar Energy/Energy Efficiency in 2010
Top qualities: Personable, Expert, High Integrity

“Ray did an energy audit at our home in the fall of 2010 and we look forward to proceeding with a solar system through Sustainable Energy Group in 2011. Ray is extremely knowledgeable in the field of solar energy system design for homes and businesses. He is also more than willing to provide other energy savings suggestions for people just interested in saving money on their utility bills. He is well organized and a good communicator, whether he is explaining a complicated system in person or following up through email. It is a pleasure to work with Ray and I recommend him highly if you are even considering solar or any energy improvements to your home.”

Frans Velthuijsen,
Owner, Quality & Quantity Construction Services, Inc

“Whenever I have a question about energy efficiency in my remodeling projects I know that Ray is always there to share his insights and knowledge and provide practical recommendations.”

Tom Agar
Hired Ray as a Solar Power Consultant in 2002 and hired him more than once
Top qualities:
Personable, Expert, High Integrity
“Ray is THE content expert in this field and has not only worked successfully for many years in the solar power industry, but has helped drive and shape it through his many years of involvement in both the public and private sector creating and shaping policy. Ray is an awesome person as well and his lifestyle revolves around the technology he so brilliantly advocates!”

Janaia Donaldson
Top qualities: Expert, High Integrity, Creative
“Ray knows his stuff. He helped us locate and transported a huge bank of used batteries - just what we needed. Personable and honest.”

Lori Lachman,
Director, Greenlife Eco Fest

“Ray is extremely knowledgeable on all things having to do with sustainable living and alternative energy. He is a hard working person of great integrity. I would highly recommend him for any job that you might need done.”

Tim Ogburn
Top qualities:
Great Results, Expert, High Integrity
“If you are looking for someone to consult on solar and energy questions and opportunities, Ray is your guy. He is the most knowledgeable and honest consultant I've ever worked with. Great guy on many levels.”

Robert South
Robert South Design Group, ADAIQ, Recover Energy and Water

“Ray has a creative problem solving approach to his energy projects. His passion and knowledge for sustainablity engineering is unique. I always found Ray to be easy to work with and he has always been focused on results.”


Bob Bielenberg
McCoy & Bielenberg Heating & A/C

“We have worked with Ray on several jobs in Nevada County. Ray is very knowledgeable in energy conservation and the details on how to accomplish this in existing homes. His work is of the highest quality and reflects the passion that he has for his occupation. Ray sells solutions and not just equipment.”


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Last revised
11/15/11