In every edition of The Solar Report, we spotlight one of our valued Platinum Business Members through an exclusive interview. This issue, TXSES Communications Director Tamara Kowalski connects with new Platinum member Texas Power Inspections and its COO & Co-Founder, Nick Kapalla, to explore the company’s origins, mission, key achievements, and the impact of its work on customers.
Company & Mission
What inspired you to start TPI?
I’ve spent years in the electrical and solar space traveling all over the country installing and managing systems. Over time, I started noticing a consistent issue: no one was truly looking out for the quality and long-term performance of these systems. With the help of Senate Bill 1202, we can now use our expertise to review and inspect systems with professionals who know what they are looking at. That’s really what pushed me to start Texas Power Inspections. I wanted to build something that protects homeowners, contractors, and everyone involved by ensuring systems are done right the first time.
How long have you been working in the solar energy space and what do you most enjoy about it?
I’ve been in the electrical industry for over nine years, focusing specifically on solar and energy storage for a large portion of that time. It’s an industry that actually makes a difference. You’re not just installing or reviewing a system, you’re helping people take control of their energy and, in many cases, making their homes more resilient. There’s also a ton of innovation happening, which keeps things interesting.
FAST FACTS
- Years in Business: 1 year
- Service Area: Statewide Texas
- Favorite Project: Any project where we catch something that prevents a future failure
- Fun Fact: I can’t drive through a neighborhood with solar without critiquing at least three installs in my head.
What is your company’s mission, and how does it show up in your daily work?
Our mission is simple: bring accountability, consistency, and quality to the solar and backup power industry. We demonstrate this daily by holding projects to a high standard, regardless of where they’re installed. We’re not tied to installation, so we can be completely objective and focused on compliance and safety.
Work & Expertise
What services do you offer and what sets your company apart?
We provide third-party plan reviews and inspections for solar PV systems, energy storage systems, and backup generators. What sets us apart is that we don’t install—we strictly review and inspect. That neutrality is a big deal because it allows us to focus entirely on doing what’s right for the project, not what’s fastest or most convenient.
What types of projects are you most proud of?
Honestly, the ones where we catch something that could cause a serious issue down the road. Whether it’s a structural concern, improper wiring, or a code compliance issue, those are the projects where we know we made a real impact.
Who is your typical customer or client?
Most of our work comes from solar contractors, but we also work with homeowners and legal teams. Anyone who needs an unbiased, third-party perspective on a system is a good fit for us.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you or your team?
Many people assume inspections are just a checklist, but our team has a deep background in electrical work, code enforcement, and field experience. We’ve been on the installation side and the building official side, so we understand both perspectives, which helps us be fair but thorough.
What’s one common misconception people have about going solar?
That once it’s installed, you’re good forever. The reality is that solar systems are electrical systems, and like anything else, they need correct installation and proper maintenance. A bad installation can create long-term issues that don’t show up right away.
Texas Solar Landscape
What are you seeing in the Texas solar market right now?
It’s growing fast, probably faster than most people expected. With that growth, though, you’re seeing a mix of really strong companies and some that are cutting corners. That’s where third-party oversight is becoming more important.
What challenges or opportunities do you think are most important for the industry in Texas?
One of the biggest challenges is consistency across jurisdictions. There’s still a lot of confusion around regulations and processes. At the same time, that creates an opportunity to improve how projects are reviewed and inspected statewide, especially with newer legislation supporting third-party involvement.
What advice would you give to someone considering solar for their home or business?
Do your homework and don’t just go with the cheapest option. Ask questions about who is reviewing and inspecting the system, not just who is installing it. A quality installation will save you many headaches in the long run.
TXSES Membership
Why did you choose to become a TXSES Business Member?
We wanted to be more involved in the broader solar community in Texas. TXSES brings together many different perspectives, and it’s a great platform to help move the industry forward.
Why do you think organizations like TXSES are important for the solar industry and consumers?
They help bridge the gap between contractors, policymakers, and consumers. A central organization that advocates for the industry while also educating the public is extremely valuable.
Looking Ahead
What’s next for your company in the coming year?
We’re focused on scaling our operations and continuing to expand across Texas. We’ve already worked in hundreds of jurisdictions and completed over 4,000 plan reviews, and the goal is to keep building relationships and improving the overall inspection and review process.
What are you excited about for the future of solar in Texas?
The continued growth, especially around energy storage and backup systems. As reliability becomes more important, I think we’re going to see a big shift toward more resilient home energy solutions.