Molly Dunton is a clean energy professional with a passion for renewable power solutions. With nearly 5 years of experience in the industry, Molly has seen firsthand the impact that wind and solar can have in displacing fossil fuels and creating a more sustainable future.

Molly’s journey into clean energy began after spending 8 years working in environmental non-profit organizations. While the work was meaningful, Molly felt frustrated by the lack of tangible progress in areas like fighting oil and gas development. “I spent about 8 years in environmental NGOs doing global conservation, tree planting, and forest preservation, then went on to fight oil and gas for four years. So that’s how I came to clean energy: realizing that trying to put turbines up is actually a lot more impactful.”

Transitioning to the clean energy industry, Molly found a new sense of purpose. As a developer for Steelhead Americas, the North American development arm of leading wind turbine manufacturer Vestas, Molly has been focused on bringing wind projects to life in her home state of New York. “The stability and impact of this work is so rewarding,” she says. “We’re not just fighting against the bad — we’re actively building the solutions that will replace fossil fuels.”

While developing wind farms in New York presents unique challenges due to the state’s strict environmental regulations, Molly sees this as a positive. “New York forces us to have really solid projects that can withstand a lot of scrutiny. It’s tough, but in the end, we’re building assets that will provide clean, affordable power for decades.”

Molly is particularly proud of the wind projects she’s worked on in central and upstate New York, where the open farmland provides ideal conditions for wind development. “It’s been amazing to see these communities embrace wind energy, even in very conservative, Republican-leaning areas,” she notes. “At the end of the day, people care about jobs, revenue, and a clean environment – and wind delivers on all of that.”

Looking ahead, Molly is excited about the future of the clean energy industry. “Despite the political rhetoric, the facts are clear – renewable power sources like wind and solar are the most affordable and sustainable options we have. This isn’t going away, it’s only going to grow.” 

Molly hopes that by sharing her story, she can help dispel some of the misinformation surrounding wind energy and inspire others to get involved in this crucial sector. “We need all hands on deck to tackle climate change and build a better future. Clean energy is where it’s at.”