Our mission is to build world-classroofs and solar power systems at the best possible value for our clients: Jim Petersen, President, CEO & Founder PetersenDean Roofing & Solar

One of the recent technology trends making waves on the globe right now is the significant use of solar energy systems to generate clean, non-polluting electricity and to also curb other issues that directly affect the environment. Due to different global warming concerns and the depletion of the earth’s resources, innovators have found ways to harness the sun’s energy creating sustainable solutions that could eventually replace conventional sources of energy.

In view of the above mentioned, we are excited to present PetersenDean Roofing & Solar, the nation’s largest privately heldroofing, and solar power installer.

Founded in 1984 by Jim Petersen, PetersenDean specializes in residential and commercial construction. With more than a million roofs under its belt, the Fremont, California-based company employs 3,000 workers and operates in seven states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Nevada, Oklahoma and Texas. The firm provides a variety of roofing choices and solar systems for homeowners, homebuilders, commercial developers and others. Projects include everything from convention centers, shopping malls, hospitals, apartments, museums, stadiums, hotels and more.

Interview Excerpt: Jim Petersen, President, CEO & Founder

Why was the company set up? How did you select the vertical and decide to be a part of the global platform?

Since we started PetersenDean 34 years ago, we have fulfilled our mission of delivering world-class roofing and solar power systems at the best possible value for our customers. Now, more than ever, we believe that solar power should be accessible to all Americans.

Our mission is to build high-quality roofs and solar roofing systems at the best possible value for our clients. We use American-made materials as much as possible so we’re helping the environment and the economy. We are the only major solar installer that is also a licensed roofer. We are a full-service roofing contractor and solar power installer. We handle estimating, design, permitting, and installation of roofing and solar roofing systems for all our clients. We also provide financing options through a network of partners that can apply to roofing and solar power. 

Tell us about your first product that was launched?

The Solar4America campaign is our concept to deliver transparency in solar pricing and drive down the costs of solar power. No ‘financial magic’ or ‘accounting tricks’, just a fair price and commitment to quality installation. We use high-quality products, stringently reviewed by third-party testing agencies so they will stand the test of time and provide a consistent return on investment.

What were the grounds on which you have expanded your company and its offerings over the years?

About 10 years ago, as renewable energy started taking off, none of the big companies knew how to install roofs, so they called us. And after several years of installing other people’s jobs, we realized that not only do we install better than anyone else, but we could also offer a better product. At the time, almost everyone was doing solar leasing, and we said, you know what, leases are good for the solar companies, but they are not good for the customers. We are going to help homeowners own their systems and take advantage of the tax credits. In that year we doubled in size. And, as of this year, we were officially named #1 Solar Rooftop Contractor in the nation, through an independent study by Solar Power World magazine.

How big is your organization today? Briefly, explain the organizational structure?

PetersenDean is the largest independently owned roofing and solar company in the U.S. with more than 34 years of experience. PetersenDean has a consistent track record of profitability and can offer a fully integrated roofing and solar warranty that covers the entire roof. Specializing in new construction residential, commercial and consumer home improvement, PetersenDean works directly with homeowners as well as some of the nation’s largest builders and developers. I am sure you have heard of names like Lennar, Pulte and D.R. Horton; they are our clients. With more than a million roofs under our belt, we operate residential and commercial divisions throughout the nation. Residential roofs aren’t the only thing we do. We work on all sorts of roofing projects, large and small such as the retractable stadium roof for the Florida Marlins baseball team—one of only five retractable roofs in the nation. We do it all—homes, hospitals, shopping centers, schools, museums and more.

Where do you see you and your company a couple of years from now? 

We see our company continuing to expand in other markets across the nation, especially as renewable energy continues to be a viable option from both an environmental and economic standpoint. 

About PetersenDean Roofing & Solar

Founded in 1984 by Jim Petersen, PetersenDean is the largest, full-service, privately-held roofing and solar company in the United States. Specializing in new residential and commercial construction, PetersenDean works with some of the nation’s largest builders and developers. With more than a million roofs under its belt, the Fremont, Calif.-based company employs 3,000 workers and operates in seven states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Nevada, Oklahoma and Texas.

The Brain behind the Picture

Jim Petersen, President, CEO & Founder of PetersenDean Roofing & Solar: Jim Petersen founded PetersenDean in 1984. Since then, he has been active in the community and industry. He is past president of the governing board of education for the Fremont Unified School District. Mr. Petersen is a member of the Institute of Architects, the National Association of Roofing Contractors, the Western States Roofing Contractors Association, and the Building Industry Association. He also leads PetersenDean’s efforts as an active supporter of organizations including the Make-A-Wish Foundation, HomeAid, and Habitat for Humanity.