Solar Energy Industries Association Appoints Former Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty As New President And CEO

The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), the national trade association representing the U.S. solar and energy storage industry, has announced the appointment of Tim Pawlenty as its new President and Chief Executive Officer.Pawlenty brings extensive leadership experience from both public service and the private sector.

He previously served as the 39th Governor of Minnesota, holding office for two terms from 2003 to 2011. During his tenure, he managed a $50 billion biennial state budget, oversaw more than 20 state agencies and departments, and supported several forward-looking renewable energy policies. After his time as governor, he also served as President and CEO of the Financial Services Roundtable, where he worked on initiatives aimed at strengthening the U.S. financial system.

SEIA plays a central role in advancing the solar and energy storage industry across the United States. The organization represents companies operating across the entire value chain, including manufacturing, development, installation, and financing. It works to promote policies that expand access to affordable, reliable, and domestically produced clean energy.

Over the years, SEIA has helped solar and storage become the fastest-growing energy sources in the country, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs and driving significant investment while contributing to greater U.S. energy independence.Scott Moskowitz of Qcells, who serves as SEIA Board Chair, welcomed the appointment of Pawlenty.

He noted that Pawlenty brings strong executive leadership experience, deep understanding of public policy, and a clear awareness of the energy challenges facing the country. He also expressed confidence that Pawlenty will help build strong partnerships across industry and government to support the continued growth of affordable American-made solar and storage solutions.

Pawlenty, on accepting the role, said he is honored to join SEIA at a critical time for the nation’s energy future. He highlighted the role of solar energy as one of the most abundant and powerful energy sources available, describing it as a key solution for meeting rising electricity demand while also helping reduce energy costs for households and businesses.

He emphasized that expanding access to solar and storage technologies can strengthen domestic energy supply and improve affordability across the country. He also expressed his intention to work closely with SEIA members, policymakers, and industry partners to advance this mission.Pawlenty is set to officially assume his position on June 15.

Until then, Darren Van’t Hof will continue serving as interim President and CEO, ensuring continuity in leadership and a smooth transition for the organization and its members.SEIA’s interim leadership also expressed strong support for the appointment. Darren Van’t Hof thanked the search committee for its efforts and welcomed Pawlenty to the organization, stating confidence in his ability to lead SEIA into its next phase of growth.

Members of SEIA’s Executive Search Committee also shared their perspectives on the appointment. Alfredo Espinosa of Moss highlighted Pawlenty’s ability to provide steady leadership and navigate the intersection of policy and markets. Mike Arndt of Swift Current Energy emphasized his experience in building partnerships and managing change in complex environments.

Jessica Lawrence-Vaca of Array Technologies pointed to his background in government and organizational leadership as key strengths, particularly in driving innovation and strengthening the energy economy. Jon Powers of CleanCapital noted that Pawlenty’s combined public and private sector experience will help SEIA continue expanding opportunities across the solar and storage industry.O

verall, the appointment reflects SEIA’s focus on strengthening leadership at a time when the clean energy sector continues to expand rapidly, with solar and storage playing an increasingly important role in meeting energy demand and supporting long-term sustainability goals.