SunEdison appoints new director of government affairs, Mid-Atlantic

SunEdison has appointed Kerinia Cusick as director of government affairs in the Mid-Atlantic. Cusick's main role will involve the promotion of solar initiatives in the states of Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Ohio, North Carolina, and the District of Columbia, where a distinct increase in this energy source has arisen over the past year.

Prior to joining SunEdison Cusick worked with companies like Toyota North America to evaluate the financial viability of commercial-scale solar for distribution sites. Over the past year she was involved in the key legislation, including bills allowing homeowners in Maryland and Virginia to use property taxes to finance residential solar installations.

Cusick studied energy policy and earned a Master's in Systems Management at the University of Southern California and also holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Drexel University. She is also a board member for Maryland-DC-Virginia SEIA (Solar Energy Industry Association) and a co-chair for the Women's Council on Energy and Environment.

Rick Gilliam, vice president of government affairs for SunEdison, said, "Kerinia is known as a champion of solar development in government and the private sector. She understands energy policy and the importance of solar as an energy source that has proven to reduce energy costs, create local jobs and protect the environment. We welcome her to SunEdison."

Kathy Magruder, executive director for the Maryland Clean Energy Center, said, "We have enjoyed working with Kerinia to resolve some of the challenges that face solar projects in the state of Maryland. We look forward to additional collaboration with her as we expand solar adoption in the state."