Statement of Qualifications & Primary Client Benefits
Tom Kacandes operates as an independent advisor responsible solely to the client. Being completely independent means there are zero conflicts of interest, delivering honest project results—including explicit guidance if a project is not worth pursuing. With decades of experience as a solar designer, specifier, installer, project developer, and site manager, Tom evaluates properties from an owner’s perspective to ensure solar adds genuine total value.
Core Expertise & Representative Work
Comprehensive Skill Set: Over 30 years in site development and redevelopment, ranging from small installations to complex 10 MW, 300-acre site feasibilities, permittings, and multi-site financing bids up to $140 Million.
Turnaround & Management: Proven track record in real estate operations, including turning loss-making sites into 15% profit operations.
Technical Depth: Inventor with two patents in solar racking and experience in panel manufacturing, bringing deep technical knowledge to every design.
Featured Project Case Studies
231 Main St. Net Zero Energy Building (33,000 W): Designed a system to deliver true net-zero energy. When a roof modification reduced available space, Tom solved the issue by creatively relocating four panels to a front awning. Working alongside project architects, this adapted design created an iconic visual feature for the LEED Platinum building while maintaining 100% solar supply and maximum incentives.
Bread Alone Bakery (Lake Katrine, NY): Served as project developer and lead installer for a 664-panel, 196,000-Watt system. Despite roof obstructions, weather delays, and structural challenges, the completed installation successfully powers 25% of the bakery's electricity, alongside advised upgrades to HVAC, roofing, and structural layout.
Owner's & Bank's Representative Roles: Managed end-to-end design, permitting, utility interconnect, and installer selection for 918 Ulster Ave (Kingston, NY). Acted as the Bank's Representative for Orange County Trust Co., designing and supervising the 1.8 MW construction at President Container in Middletown, NY.
Land & Large Site Redevelopment: Consulted on site feasibility for a 300-acre property in Marbletown, maximizing site value before a successful sale to ConEdison. Managed large-scale state redevelopments, including a 100-acre industrial site in Orange County and Ulster County's largest commercial property (the former 260-acre IBM Kingston facility).
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