The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) has appointed former Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty as its new president and CEO. Pawlenty, who served as the 39th Governor of Minnesota from 2003 to 2011, will officially assume the role on June 15, succeeding interim president and CEO Darren Van’t Hof, who will continue leading the organization during the transition period.

Former Minnesota governor to lead U.S. solar industry group

SEIA, the national trade association representing the U.S. solar and energy storage industry, said Pawlenty brings extensive executive leadership and public policy experience at a critical time for the sector.

During his two terms as governor, Pawlenty oversaw a biennial budget of approximately $50 billion, managed more than 20 state agencies and departments, and supported renewable energy initiatives in Minnesota. He also previously served as president and CEO of the Financial Services Roundtable, where he focused on policies related to the U.S. financial system.

SEIA board chair Scott Moskowitz said Pawlenty’s leadership experience and policy expertise made him well suited to lead the organization.

“Tim brings a proven track record of executive leadership, deep public policy expertise, and a clear understanding of the energy challenges facing our country,” Moskowitz said. “I am confident Tim will build strong coalitions to advance the growth of affordable, American-made solar and storage across the United States.”

Focus on affordable solar and energy storage

In his first remarks following the announcement, Pawlenty emphasized the role of solar and storage in addressing rising electricity demand and improving affordability for consumers.

“The sun is the safest, most natural, and largest nuclear reactor in the world, and it provides an abundant source of energy we should be using to its fullest potential,” Pawlenty said.

He added that solar energy represents “one of the most effective tools” to meet growing power demand while lowering costs for households and businesses.

“At a time when affordability is front and center for Americans, expanding access to low-cost solar and storage can deliver real savings and strengthen our domestic energy supply,” he said.

SEIA highlights growth of solar and storage industry

SEIA said the organization has played a central role in expanding solar and energy storage across the United States, helping turn the technologies into some of the country’s fastest-growing energy sources.

The association represents companies across the solar and storage value chain and advocates for policies supporting reliable, low-cost, domestically produced energy, as well as job creation and investment growth.