Geenex/Cobia Solar made their opening “pitch” for a 5,500 acre solar farm they hope to erect primarily in the northwest part of the county at Wednesday’s Decatur County Board of Zoning Appeals meeting.
Donny de Castro, Vice President Of Development
With 25 years of professional experience, Donny de Castro serves as the Vice President of Development at Geenex, leading the development team through every phase of the project lifecycle, from discovery to post-permitting. With extensive expertise in renewable technologies, energy markets, energy policy and operational optimization, Donny plays a pivotal role in driving the company’s success in the evolving energy landscape. His strong belief in the power of people and commitment to fostering personal relationships have been key factors in bringing numerous projects to NTP across the United States. Passionate about the energy transition, Donny is dedicated to advancing Geenex’s mission in this critical period of transformation. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Wesleyan University and a Master’s Degree in Renewable Energy & Sustainability Systems from Penn State University.
Wes Cooper, CFO
As the CFO of Geenex, Wes Cooper leads the company’s financial strategy and planning to grow its portfolio of energy projects and ensure long-term sustainability. With over 5 years in the renewable energy industry, 4 of those at a leading utility, Wes has a strong understanding of project development and financial risk management. Prior to becoming CFO, Wes served as Geenex’s VP of Finance, managing the company’s accounting functions and overseeing its banking relationships. Wes holds an MBA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Kenan-Flagler Business School, and a BSBA from the Poole College of Management at North Carolina State University.
Walter Putnam, Senior Advisor
As a Senior Advisor for Geenex, Walter Putnam leads the company’s M&A, legal, real estate and greenfield business units. With a focus on the triple bottom line (people, planet and profit) Walter’s business pursuits have been centered around bringing renewable energy projects to market. Prior to working with Geenex, Walter was a founding partner at Shift Equity which focused on renewable energy project feasibility and environmental commodities. Joining Geenex in 2013, his leadership in various roles within the company buoyed the growth of Geenex’s pipeline to more than 12GW of utility-scale development assets across the Mid-Atlantic US. Walter is a native North Carolinian and a proud graduate of Appalachian State University, where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Appropriate Technology and a minor in Entrepreneurship.
Amanda Corll, Sr. Director of Permitting
Amanda Corll is Geenex’s Senior Director of Permitting. In this role she shepherds projects through environmental studies and the permitting process to de-risk and obtain permits needed to be constructed. Amanda has about 10 years of experience in the industry with her career focused on GIS, siting and green fielding, environmental due diligence and permitting. Amanda holds a Bachelor’s degree in biology from Brenau University, a Master’s of Science in Environmental Science from the College of Charleston, and is currently a candidate in the University of Oklahoma’s Executive MBA in Energy Program.
Steve Hazel, VP of Interconnection and Engineering
Steve Hazel designed and installed his first PV system while at university more than 20 years ago and hasn’t looked back. As an engineer, his true passion is problem solving. He enjoys all sizes of challenges, from small off-grid projects to utility scale. At Geenex, he navigates the complex obstacles of interconnection such that our projects can safely and reliably connect to the transmission system. He is dedicated to facing our nations ever-growing energy needs head on. Steve has experienced all facets of the industry, both globally and domestic, from development, design and construction through operation. He is a licensed electrician, NABCEP certified and holds a BS in Electrical and Computer engineering from Rowan University.
Allison Rohrs, VP of Land Development
Allison Rohrs is a seasoned energy industry professional with over 15 years of experience in renewable energy. Currently serving as Vice President of Land Development at Geenex, she has played a pivotal role in securing the company’s robust pipeline of projects over the past five years. Her expertise encompasses a wide range of areas, including renewable energy site acquisition, development, operations and maintenance, energy policy, and stakeholder engagement. With a Master’s degree in Energy and Mineral Engineering from Penn State, Allison brings a strong technical foundation to her work.
Jessica Gliha, Chief of Strategic Operations
Jessica Gliha is the Chief of Strategic Operations at Geenex, where she leads the Community Relations, Marketing, and Government Affairs teams. With over 25 years of experience in marketing communications management and organizational leadership, Jessica is adept at developing and executing strategies that foster strong, sustainable relationships with project communities. Her career spans a range of industries, including clean energy, banking, consulting, and entrepreneurship, providing her with a unique, cross-sector perspective. Jessica earned her MBA from Otterbein University and holds a Bachelor’s degree from Wright State University.
Emily Williams, CEO
As the CEO of Geenex, Emily Williams leads the company’s strategic growth and operational excellence across its portfolio of energy projects. With over 15 years in the electric generation industry, including a decade at a leading utility, Emily has deep knowledge of project development and regulatory dynamics, which has led to a proven record of driving successful energy initiatives. Prior to becoming CEO, Emily served as Geenex’s Chief Development Officer, guiding major project developments and fostering partnerships across the industry. Emily holds a Juris Doctor from Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law, an MBA from the Kelley School of Business, and a Bachelor’s degree from Miami University.
