• Posted: November 13, 2025
• 93energy, Battery storage integration, better careers, better communities, better construction, Clean energy construction partnerships, Energy storage contractors Chicago, Hydrogen energy projects, IBEW apprenticeship training, IBEW Local 134, Renewable energy projects in Illinois, School solar installations in Chicago, Solar and storage project Chicago, Solar energy contractors in Chicago, Union electrical contractors for solar installations

Eric Payne founded 93Energy with a vision that extended beyond building a business. His focus was on creating meaningful work that makes an impact.

What began as a solar construction business has grown into a mission-driven enterprise shaping the next generation of clean energy infrastructure across Chicago and beyond.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to know that our work provides jobs and contributes to something bigger than ourselves,” said Eric Payne, CEO of 93 Energy. “We dedicate so much of our lives to our careers, and it’s important that it means more than simply making money.”

Joining Forces for a Brighter Future

A defining milestone for 93Energy came when the company joined IBEW Local 134 and the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) of Chicago. The partnership opened access to world-class training programs and a skilled workforce, allowing the company to scale confidently.

“Joining the IBEW was a big step for us,” Payne said. “It’s given our team access to training, apprenticeships, and highly skilled professionals who help us take on bigger and more complex projects.”

Since joining, 93Energy has enrolled several employees in apprenticeship programs, and now relies on a consistent pipeline of trained electricians to meet rising project demand. The collaboration has allowed the company to expand its reach and align with Powering Chicago’s mission of delivering better construction, better careers, and better communities.

Technology, Adaptation, and the Role of AI

Each week, 93Energy holds AI work sessions to explore new tools for efficiency and collaboration. 

“AI is the buzz thing right now,” Payne said. “We’ve been doing weekly check-ins to learn how each member of our team is incorporating AI into their daily workflow, and best practices to use it effectively.”

The company now uses AI for contract reviews, project research, and marketing, helping teams summarize complex documents and identify red flags more quickly. AI also supports research on utility interconnection requirements and incentive programs for new developments.

Beyond AI, 93Energy is evaluating integrated project management software to streamline requests for information and accelerate client response times. 

“It’s about learning how to use technology in a way that enhances the work we already do,” Payne said.

Expanding Horizons: Hydrogen, Batteries, and What Comes Next

With the federal Solar Investment Tax Credit set to phase out after 2027, 93Energy is preparing for future market shifts by diversifying into battery storage, and exploring hydrogen and nuclear technologies.

One example is an off-grid hybrid project in Virginia that combines 5 megawatts of solar, a 2 megawatt battery system, and a 2.5 megawatt hydrogen plant. 

“It feels like we’re on the cutting edge,” Payne said. “We’re figuring out what comes next and how to incorporate it responsibly.”

Payne sees two types of clients driving today’s solar demand: developers that have secured safe-harbored projects and smaller entities, such as schools and manufacturers, that are accelerating timelines before incentives phase out.

 “The next two years in solar are going to be incredibly busy,” he said. “Our focus is on being ready for that growth while planning what follows.”

Community Impact Through Education and Energy

Closer to home, 93Energy is helping schools across the Chicago region transition to solar power. Recent installations include Marian Catholic High School and Marist High School, with additional work underway for several elementary schools in Mount Prospect.

“It’s been rewarding to help schools figure out what solar adoption looks like,” Payne said. “They use a lot of electricity, and the savings and sustainability benefits make a huge difference.”

For 93Energy, each project is an investment in the next generation and a demonstration of how renewable energy can strengthen local communities.

A Shared Vision for a Sustainable Chicago

Payne’s recent trip abroad to China to visit a battery manufacturer offered a global perspective on renewable energy’s future. “It was eye-opening,” he said. “Seeing both the progress and the pollution firsthand made it clear that we need to expand clean energy responsibly.”

As Chicago and Cook County continue investing in electrification and clean power, 93Energy’s work, powered by IBEW Local 134 electricians and ECA contractors, illustrates how local partnerships and innovation can build a more sustainable future.

“Ultimately, we have great people,” Payne said. “From our electricians to our office staff, everyone is committed to delivering quality work and making a difference.”

Looking Ahead

93Energy’s next goal is to grow into a one-hundred-million-dollar company while developing select in-house solar and energy projects. The company is also exploring large-scale solar and storage opportunities in Mexico and abroad, partnering with international developers to expand into international markets.

“The goal is to keep growing and keep learning,” Payne said. “We want to push technology forward and continue building projects that make a lasting impact.”

To learn more about 93Energy and other Powering Chicago member contractors driving solar energy innovation, visit our website or use the Find a Contractor Tool to connect with qualified electrical experts for your next project.