SolaREIT Strengthens Its Legal and Finance Departments with New Expertise
SolaREIT™, a prominent name in the world of renewable energy real estate investment, has recently announced a significant expansion of its legal and finance teams, bringing aboard three experienced professionals. This strategic move comes as the company continues to scale its capital solutions business, which has successfully financed over $7.5 billion worth of clean energy projects since its inception in 2020.
The new hires are instrumental in enhancing the company’s operational capabilities, notably in executing deals efficiently and maintaining disciplined financial practices. Laura Pagliarulo, the Founder and CEO of SolaREIT, expressed her pride in welcoming such top-tier talent, emphasizing the vital role the team plays in the company's success.
New Team Members and Their Backgrounds
Marisa McCurdy, who takes on the role of General Counsel, has accumulated an impressive 20 years of experience in energy and project finance law. Her career has included significant tenures at the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and major law firms such as Kirkland & Ellis and Hogan Lovells, where she focused on energy and project finance. Her vast knowledge in the solar industry and her in-house experience at companies like SunEdison will be crucial for SolaREIT as it navigates an evolving market.
Kevin Russo joins as the Director of Financial Planning and Analysis, bringing over 12 years of financial expertise. His previous roles include a decade at Elme Communities, a publicly traded multifamily REIT, where he excelled in financial planning and analysis, treasury management, capital markets, and investor relations. Russo’s insights will help SolaREIT optimize its financial strategies as it expands.
Lastly, Daniel Leppert steps into the role of Transaction Counsel, bringing nearly 20 years of renewable energy and real estate expertise. His background includes significant contributions to the development of hundreds of megawatts of solar energy during his time with companies such as Community Energy and SunShare. Moreover, his experience as real estate counsel for Richmond American and Unison Infrastructure further solidifies his standing as a valuable asset to SolaREIT.
A Bright Future for SolaREIT
SolaREIT is not just expanding its team, but it is also reinforcing its mission to provide flexible capital solutions essential for scaling solar, energy storage, and infrastructure development across the United States. Established in Virginia, this woman-owned Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) was founded by veterans of the clean energy sector, who are passionate about making a positive impact on the clean energy economy.
The addition of McCurdy, Russo, and Leppert underscores SolaREIT’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the renewable energy market. The company’s approach includes dynamic capital solutions that assist developers and landowners in monetizing their land and leasing rights, ultimately freeing up resources and reducing costs.
As the demand for clean energy continues to rise, SolaREIT stands poised for further growth and success in the renewable energy landscape, drawing from the wealth of experience and insight of its newly expanded legal and finance teams. With a solid foundation built on expert knowledge and dedication, SolaREIT is ready to tackle the challenges of an ever-evolving industry and to lead the way towards a more sustainable future.