Jackie Chambers Takes the Helm as President of New Energy Equity, Bill Francis Joins as VP of Development

Leadership Changes at New Energy Equity

In a significant move aimed at steering the company towards its next growth phase, Jackie Chambers has been promoted to President of New Energy Equity, a subsidiary of ALLETE. Alongside her, Bill Francis has transitioned into the role of Vice President of Development. Both Chambers and Francis are seasoned professionals in the energy sector, bringing a wealth of experience to their new positions.

Chambers, who joined New Energy Equity in 2024 as Chief Investment Officer, has a proven track record in project finance strategy and has successfully led the monetization of the company's expanding project pipeline. As President, she will focus on aligning the company's development strategy, policy, and finance to enhance its influence on landowners, partners, and communities.

Before joining New Energy Equity, Jackie built an impressive portfolio at companies like Nexamp and PNC Energy Capital, where she was instrumental in the financing of more than $500 million in energy assets, closing over 300 megawatts of solar projects. Her extensive background in community solar and large-scale projects positions her well for this leadership role.

Josh Kunkel, the Chief Executive Officer of New Energy Equity, expressed strong confidence in Chambers’ capabilities, stating, "In her time at New Energy Equity, Jackie has demonstrated deep expertise in the energy industry along with leadership and caring for the company and its people. I am very excited to have her on our team to guide New Energy Equity into its next chapter."

Expressing her aspirations, Chambers stated, "I'm honored to step into the role of President and continue building on the strong foundation we have laid. New Energy Equity has a clear mission and a proven ability to deliver meaningful results. I'm excited to help lead our next stage of growth."

Bill Francis, who joined New Energy Equity in early 2026, will now oversee the company's solar and energy storage development pipeline as Vice President of Development. His role will involve advancing projects from their initial stages through development to construction. Francis brings extensive experience in solar and battery storage development from his previous position at ENGIE North America, where he managed the development and sale of various battery storage projects.

Kunkel commented on Francis’s new position, noting, "Bill's transition to Vice President of Development puts a proven developer and market-builder at the center of our solar and energy storage pipeline. His experience and enthusiasm will help us execute more projects with confidence and speed."

Looking ahead, Francis stated, "I'm excited to take on this new role and help advance a strong pipeline of solar and energy storage projects. There is tremendous opportunity to create reliable energy for the communities we are a part of and lasting economic value for our partners, and I look forward to working with our team to bring more projects forward."

New Energy Equity continues to establish itself as a leader in developing, building, and owning solar and energy storage projects intended to generate reliable energy and lasting economic benefits. The company has successfully developed over 600 megawatts of solar projects across 16 states, and under the new leadership, it aims to expand its reach and impact even further. For more information, visit New Energy Equity's website.