Nelson Electric was formed in 1963 in Minneapolis. It was founded by Paul Nelson, the father of the current owner, Robert Nelson. The business has been located in South Minneapolis since its beginning, where Robert lived while growing up. Robert was raised in the electrical business his father created and in 1977 started working for his father. In 1989 he over took the business with his sisters when his father passed away. Since that time he has been working hard to grow and diversify the company to better fit the needs of our clients. In 2004 his sisters retired and he is now the sole owner of the business.

From a typical one-man, one-truck operation, it has grown and evolved into one of the most capable and versatile electrical contractors in the area. Nelson is proud of their heritage and longevity, but they never stop working to improve their business. Over the years they have adapted their business to address the ever-changing challenges facing customers. Today, they are able to provide clients with an unusual depth of experience, an innovative approach to project assessment and an unflagging commitment to service.

Part of this adaption has been to create a complimentary company, Nelson Contractors, Inc., to join forces with Nelson Electric, Inc. in order to meet the needs of clients who wanted additional construction, or remodeling services. In addition Nelson Contractors, Inc. specializes in solar installations. Since his teen years Robert has been exploring his passion for alternative energy and ecology. It started early when he was a young teen and he faithfully read each issue of Mother Earth News Magazine from cover to cover. Robert has continued to eagerly read and research anything he can regarding alternative energy and solar energy in particular. He realized a few years ago that he wanted to help people discover and utilize alternative energy. With his knowledge of electrical contracting and license as a building contractor, creating Nelson Contractors to join forces with Nelson Electric would give him the means to do this. Improved technology in the solar industry, a renewed interest in ecology, the state of the economy and state of fossil fuel supplies, the solar industry has become one of the best ways to help people improve their lives and the lives of people around them.

While the types of services Nelson provides may change, the philosophy that has guided them for more than 45 years never will. Nelson will continue to serve clients with a unique combination of experience, approach and discipline.