After working in commercial construction and real estate development for thirty years, Pete Corbett looked to solar energy as a way to bring more value to his development projects.

“When I started my research, I was amazed at how the technology had changed and knew I wanted to shift my talents to renewable energy, ” he says. Pete is currently the Vice President of Engineering and Construction at First Century Energy and is also a LEED certified professional.

At First Century Energy, Pete’ s main focus is the design and construction of commercial solar PV and solar water projects. He also plays an active role in the Georgia Public Service Commission and state legislature to help create more opportunities for solar in Georgia and the Southeast.

“Our biggest challenge is educating people about the benefits of solar, as both a source of clean energy and a source of job growth and economic development in the region, ” says Pete. “Our utility rates are rising quickly—the public needs to be ready to take advantage of solar. ”

Pete is amazed by the excitement that solar is bringing to Georgia and the Southeast. They recently completed installation of a 115 kW system in Athens, Georgia, attracting a large audience of engineers and field personnel.

“These are veteran utility people who wanted to see how solar produced power as opposed to coal, nuclear or gas fired plants, ” he says. “They were all very proud of what we had collectively accomplished. ”

Pete is excited that First Century Energy is at the forefront of developing the solar industry in Georgia and the Southeast.

“Our goal is nothing short of being the leading developer and integrator of solar PV and solar hot water systems in the region, ” he says. “We are positive, focused and determined to grow. ”