5 Questions With… Casey May

Get to know us! Each month, we sit down with one of our employees to get their perspective on the industry and share a little more about them with you. This month, our “5 Questions With” features Casey May, Director of Site Origination. Casey and his team work with families throughout the country to secure land and are currently active leasing in 20 states. 

1. What does Pine Gate Renewable’s mission of “getting solar done” mean to you?

For me, “getting solar done” is working with landowners across the country, often family farms, to convert a portion of their property into a sustainable revenue stream from solar farming. Agriculture is getting more difficult every year, and the families we work with are often feeling the strain. Solar provides farming families predictable revenues from their land for years to come. Revenues that are not impacted by the volatility of weather, disease or commodity prices. In addition, transitioning a portion of a farming operation from traditional crops to solar increases fiscal stability and can help keep family farms remain financially healthy. The families and farms we work with often see ‘getting solar done’ as a bridge to a future generation of farmers who will once again utilize the land for agricultural purposes after our solar project contract is complete. 

2. What are you most optimistic/excited about in this industry?

As the industry matures, I am encouraged by the reduced levels of partisanship present when evaluating the merits of solar technology. Historically, support for solar energy was often split down party lines. Over the last several years however, the economic, environmental and security benefits of the technology have become more universally compelling. I am continually seeing more diverse public and political support for a rapidly-growing industry that benefits our national interests. 

3. What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received?

Do not be too quick to point fingers and always assume the best in others.  

4. What is an unknown skill you possess outside of your day job?

I really enjoy ping pong and love to pick up a paddle when the opportunity arises. It may be my last great hope for Olympic glory. 

5. What’s one thing still on your bucket list that you hope to achieve in the next 5 years?

I would like to visit all 50 states. I have 16 left to check off the list, mostly in the Great Plains region. I look forward to getting out there with my family in the coming years and exploring that part of the country.