What interested you in working at Clean Energy NH?
I’ve always had a strong interest in energy conservation and renewable energy. The chance to work with an organization dedicated to promoting and assisting with the implementation of projects that result in the expansion of both, is one I very much look forward to.
What were you up to prior to working at the organization?
I split my work life between software and property management, always with a focus on efficiency. The exception to that was working in logistics in Germany. Living abroad opened my eyes to the strides that other countries have made in the efficiency and energy production world, mostly as a result of a unified effort on the part of their citizens, government officials, and supportive institutions.
Why did you decide to work in the clean energy industry?
Clean energy has always been a passion of mine, along with maximizing efficiency. We have PV (photovoltaic) on our house and have converted most of our home-energy use to electric in order to remove carbon-based fuels from the mix. We’ve also completed energy assessments of our rental properties and followed up with building retrofits to substantially improve efficiency. To be able to work with communities to spread the enthusiasm - and savings opportunities - was an opportunity I could not turn down.
Describe your position in more detail. Who will you be working with and what will you be doing?
I will be working with towns and cities in the Monadnock Region in a support role, helping them identify and implement projects to improve efficiency and reduce fossil fuel energy use. Navigating the logistics and funding options of renewable energy and energy efficiency projects can be intimidating, particularly for smaller towns. Encouraging towns to take advantage of renewables and efficiency upgrades and following up with technical assistance is a primary focus of the Energy Circuit Rider (ECR) position.
What aspect of your job excites you most? Why?
Bringing towns onboard with projects such as these is what excites me the most. Seeing so many towns benefit already from the implementation of renewables and energy efficiency upgrades inspires me to work with communities looking to cut costs and improve public health. The benefit to the environment as a whole goes without saying and is something all communities should incorporate into their decision making.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Find a faster path to accomplish the important things in life.
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
Anything outdoors. Bike, hike, kayak, ski, garden.
A typical weekend for me is…
Doing any one of the activities listed above, especially with the family.
What’s on your bucket list?
I wouldn’t say I have a bucket list. Fun things come your way if you're open to opportunities. I learned that from my kids.
If you could choose anyone to play you in a movie, who would it be?
That’s a tough one. An “extra” off the street would probably be a better match than any star actor.
Fun Facts:
Coffee or Tea? And how do you take it?
Coffee.
Favorite NH Restaurant:
A picnic on top of a mountain - any mountain - with family or friends.
Favorite Musician/Band/Music genre:
Having played piano and sang a lot growing up, I appreciate so many kinds of music. If you listen closely and get to know its origin, most music is pretty cool.
Favorite Recreational Activity:
If I could ski, bike, hike, and kayak all in the same day, I would. I’ve come close.
Favorite Holiday:
Christmas. Love the food, decorations, and family activities.