This month, the Solar Washington Board of Directors appointed a new board member, Aaron Peterson.  We interviewed him to get to know him better.  

Solar Washington: When, how and/or why did you become interested in solar?
Aaron Peterson: It was 2002 as a rural state legislator in Minnesota promoting clean energy legislation, then later as a wind and solar developer, around 2008.

SW: Why did you join Solar Washington and what do you expect from Solar Washington?
AP: To help guide policy and advocacy for projects. I expect candid and aspirational discussions and continuous learning opportunity.

SW: What is next for you regarding solar?
AP: To continue my role as an Ag & Rural Energy Policy Specialist for the Washington State Department of Commerce.

SW: Can you share any lessons you learned during your solar experience?
AP: Planning and zoning ordinances matter. Utility standards matter.

SW: Do you have any advice for anyone considering solar right now as a career or as a source of energy in Washington?
AP: Become a solar developer and permit and build a project, then go into policy, if desired.

Aaron lives in Ellensburg and has 20 plus years of experience in renewable energy, environmental policy, land use management, public affairs, business development, elected office, government, nonprofit management, and community relations in Washington, Montana and across the Midwest. He has been a project and business development director and manager and has contract and private sector wind and solar project development experience. Aaron specializes in: policy, projects, programs, communications, regulatory affairs, legislative process, business, and nonprofit boards.