Our Story
My name is Marty Morud and I own TruNorth Solar, a passionate solar energy design and installation company. TruNorth Solar has a strong track record of high-quality installations and we are passionate about the opportunity to make a difference for generations to come.
The origin of TruNorth Solar dates back to a moment of thought and reflection while standing in the east pasture at the Morud family farm in Bemidji, MN.
In 2009, Marty, Steve, and Dave were approached with a simple question: Could they build a solar array for Martin’s father? Marty and Steve were college roommates at St. John’s University in MN, and were both working in high tech jobs. Dave was an account supervisor for a business products company. They never imagined this simple question would take them down the path to own and operate a sustainable solar business, built with a true passion for environmental stewardship.
Dave provided the business acumen to structure the company. Marty and Steve had strong technical backgrounds but found themselves heading back to school to learn about the fast-paced and growing world of solar energy. After numerous workshops, classes, and certifications, the Bemidji farm installation became the first project in TruNorth Solar’s portfolio. This project opened the door to friends and family asking about the advantages of solar, and how to get a system of their own. The more Marty and Steve talked about solar, the deeper their passion grew.
For two years, Marty, Dave, and Steve ran TruNorth Solar as weekend warriors, sharing their passion and expertise, and installing systems to bring affordable, clean solar energy to Minnesota. In 2012, Dave became a father and wanted to spend more time as a parent, so Marty and Steve bought out his share. In December 2013, Marty purchased Steve’s interest and became the sole owner.
TruNorth Solar has installed over 1,000 solar arrays throughout Minnesota and western Wisconsin, as well as developed 26MW of community solar projects, and 100+ commercial arrays. We also started a ‘Life of System’ Service Department to ensure no initial investment in solar energy, whether we installed it or not, will go to waste. With thirty mission-driven employees, TruNorth Solar is incredibly proud that our systems are saving our clients millions in electrical costs while protecting our environment for future generations. At the end of the day, TruNorth Solar relentlessly strives for environmental stewardship and makes each solar installation a pleasant experience for all. As we say: “Money isn’t all that you’re saving.”