40 Under 40: Lizzy Reinholt is both a corporate leader and climate change activist
PHOTO / Tim Greenway
Lizzy Reinholt is chief operating officer at Peaks Renewables/Summit Utilities.
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Significant professional accomplishment: We must find real, lasting solutions to tackle climate change. I’m incredibly proud of my work to broaden the conversation around energy policy in Maine and the country, ensuring we explore every viable option.
It’s tempting to chase quick fixes and one-size-fits-all solutions, but I believe in pushing beyond what feels good in the moment to create policies that truly make a difference, drive innovation and investment, and move the needle.
Current state of mind: I love my life and wake up every morning energized to tackle the day, but let’s be real — the world is a hot mess right now. While there is a lot of good, we face significant challenges on multiple fronts, from climate change to deep divisions and inequity.
I want to say I’m optimistic about the future, but honestly, optimism isn’t enough. We need relentless realism — a clear understanding of the magnitude of the challenges ahead and the sophistication required to overcome them. There are no silver bullets, but that’s exactly what we’re searching for too often.
Passion project: I’m about to complete one passion project: earning my e-MBA. With that milestone behind me, I’m excited to dive deeper into my role at Peaks Renewables, where I work daily to develop innovative energy projects that turn waste into energy — reducing emissions and helping achieve climate goals.
I’m also eager to invest more time in my community, especially through my role on the board of Rangeley Health and Wellness.
‘Lightbulb’ moment: I went to school for journalism and produced a news show in Portland fresh out of college. It was fun, but I quickly realized I preferred to create change rather than report on it. That led me to pursue work on political campaigns, and ultimately to follow my career path into energy, leadership and innovation.
Audacious goal: Whether you’re a mom or a dad, it’s hard to have a successful career and a family. It’s even harder in a remote setting, which is why my most audacious goal has been to live in Rangeley, raise a family, pursue the career and education I wanted — despite the challenges of rural Maine.
It hasn’t always been easy, with lots of travel and time away from home. But with hard work and the incredible support of my husband, we’ve made it succeed. I hope others can achieve the same with the rise of remote work and better internet access in rural areas.
Favorite quote: “How bold one gets when one is sure of being loved” — Sigmund Freud
Influential book: “Nancy Wake: A Biography of Our Greatest War Heroine,” by Peter FitzSimons
Favorite TV show: The “Jack Ryan” series
Best way to recharge: Regular exercise, commitment to a good night’s sleep, and skiing — preferably at Saddleback.
At age 60: I hope to be partially retired and serving on the boards of a few companies and nonprofits that align with my passions. I’d love to be executive coaching some inspiring leaders, and, of course, spending plenty of time with my husband.
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