Geronimo Enters the Solar Market

Nathan Franzen Hired to Lead Geronimo’s Solar Development

MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Geronimo Wind Energy has begun a solar power project development practice, prompting the firm to change its name to Geronimo Energy. Geronimo has hired Nathan Franzen as Director of Solar Development to lead the company’s foray into the market.

“Hiring Nathan to lead our efforts enables us to hit the ground running, given his vast experience and the tremendous reputation he holds in the solar industry.”

“The solar market opportunity has become very clear given the tremendous cost declines in the industry that are making solar power competitive in new markets, such as the Midwest, where we have focused,” said Geronimo President Blake Nixon. “Hiring Nathan to lead our efforts enables us to hit the ground running, given his vast experience and the tremendous reputation he holds in the solar industry.”

“I’m very excited to join such an innovative and competitive team and I look forward to leading Geronimo’s solar development to the success that it has had with wind,” said Mr. Franzen.

Mr. Franzen comes to Geronimo from Westwood Professional Services, where he was the Director of Solar Energy. His experience comprises of oversight and project management of over 100 commercial and utility-scale solar projects in 16 states, including overseeing project development, interconnection studies, engineering, and construction services. Nathan has a Masters of Urban and Regional Planning from the Hubert H. Humphrey School of Public Affairs in Minneapolis and actively promotes renewable energy policy and regulatory framework at the local and national level.

“The solar market has experienced exponential growth in the US as installed costs continue to decline and energy markets move towards market-based pricing structures that value the on-peak power solar provides,” said Franzen. “With nearly 100% on-peak power production, solar is providing the marketplace with a clean alternative to traditional peaking facilities and capacity improvements.”

Similar to how it develops wind, Geronimo plans to develop solar projects for commercial, industrial, and utility clients and will leverage its in-house project development and power marketing expertise to launch its commercial and utility-scale solar business.

About Geronimo Energy

Geronimo Energy (Geronimo), based in Edina, Minnesota, is a developer of utility-scale wind and solar energy projects throughout the United States. Geronimo has developed three operating wind farms, including the recently completed 200 MW Prairie Rose Wind Farm in southwestern Minnesota. Geronimo has a strategic partnership with Enel Green Power, the second largest producer of renewable energy in the world, which gives it added expertise and capital strength necessary to deliver on projects for customers and communities. For more information about Geronimo Energy, please visit www.geronimoenergy.com.