Spark Northwest accelerates the shift to clean energy one community at a time. Our programs make affordable, locally-controlled clean energy more accessible for all.

Next Chapter: A Message from the Executive Director

Dear friends,

When I joined Spark Northwest (formerly Northwest SEED) in 2003, I was excited to be part of a team that was “getting stuff done” with clean energy at the community level. Reforming our energy system to be based on local, renewable energy generation was an exciting challenge, and I wanted to be part of it. Never did I imagine that we would accomplish as much as we have, helping more than 1,000 farmers and homeowners generate over 11 megawatts of local renewable energy, resulting in $21 million in economic investment and dozens of green jobs.

With bittersweet emotions, I am writing to share that after 16 years with Spark Northwest, I have decided to step down at the end of June to seek a new career challenge. The decision did not come easily as I am extremely proud of all that we have accomplished and deeply grateful to the community that supports us. Over the years, our staff, board members, partners, and funders have enabled us to become a thriving and stable organization that delivers robust programming and solid advocacy. The organization is well positioned for the future, and will continue to prioritize efforts to increase access to affordable clean energy for low-income households, rural farmers, indigenous tribes and communities of color.

I’m committed to supporting a smooth transition and am working closely with the board and staff to ensure we continue our momentum. Whether it be solar panels spanning across roofs in my neighborhood, a large solar array on a farm, or a community solar project at the local park, it’s gratifying to see the tangible impact of our work. When I say goodbye at the end of June, it will be with sincere appreciation for the community and partners that Spark Northwest has cultivated and with deep confidence that Spark Northwest will continue to be a force of positive change. We have some exciting programs launching this year – learn more at sparknorthwest.org!

With gratitude,

Jennifer Grove, Executive Director

Message from Heather Mulligan, Board Chair

Dear Spark Northwest Community,

First, I’d like to thank Jennifer for her 16 years of dedicated service and leadership of Spark Northwest. Her deep technical knowledge, pragmatic optimism and can-do approach has helped spark a renewable energy revolution for communities across Washington and Oregon. Under Jennifer’s leadership, Spark Northwest significantly expanded its size, scope and impact. She is leaving the organization well positioned to build on past success and move into its next chapter.

With Jennifer leaving, the Board has formed a Transition & Search Committee to ensure a smooth transition and hire a new Executive Director. Jennifer will continue to lead the organization and support the transition through the end of June. The Board is committed to Spark Northwest’s future and excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.

Thank you for being a trusted member of our community and a clean energy advocate. We look forward to your continued partnership and support to make affordable clean energy more accessible to all. Please feel free to reach out to Jennifer or me if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Heather Mulligan, Board Chair

heather@sparknorthwest.org