Carrie Ortolano – Lodestar Energy

Carrie Ortolano is the general counsel at Lodestar Energy, a company devoted to developing clean, renewable energy. The name Lodestar signifies a guiding star or source of inspiration, perfectly encapsulating the company’s mission.

Carrie Ortolano | Lodestar Energy | General Counsel

Founded by Jeff Macel and Jaime Smith, Lodestar brings together an experienced solar development team that combines regulatory expertise, a strong referral network, and deep market knowledge to identify, execute, and maximize the value of solar projects. The company focuses on organic origination, acquiring commercial and public sector distributed generation and small utility-scale solar projects.

Ortolano’s role at Lodestar is multifaceted. With a background in law, particularly in real estate development and telecommunications, she manages all legal aspects of the company’s operations.

“My responsibilities range from handling real estate transactions and financing to navigating the complex regulatory environment that governs renewable energy projects,” Ortolano tells Vanguard.

Lodestar has a proven track record of developing and financing over 100 projects. Their success is rooted in their ability to anticipate market trends and adapt to regulatory changes. Ortolano is crucial in ensuring that all legal and regulatory requirements are met and addressing any development gaps related to engineering, interconnection, permitting, environmental, and real estate issues.

Strategic solar expansion

One of Lodestar’s significant projects is an 11-megawatt solar project in Union, New York. This venture is highly complex, involving intricate permitting and real estate challenges. It requires continuous, detailed coordination with local authorities and adherence to stringent regulatory guidelines. Overcoming these hurdles demonstrates Lodestar’s ability to manage and execute large-scale developments efficiently.

“This project contributes significantly to the local grid’s renewable energy goals and sets a precedent for future projects in similar regions,” Ortolano explains.

In Concord, New Hampshire, Lodestar has begun construction on its first project in the state—marking the beginning of what is expected to be a series of projects in New Hampshire, highlighting Lodestar’s expansion efforts and commitment to renewable energy in new markets. The Concord project is especially noteworthy as it collaborates closely with local communities and the electric distribution company to ensure seamless integration and maximum benefit. The project also addresses New Hampshire’s growing demand for renewable energy sources and aims to provide a reliable, sustainable power solution for the area.

Ortolano says Lodestar is making a significant push to grow its development pipeline. Currently, they have approximately 150 megawatts of operating assets in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York. The company is expanding its development efforts in these markets and new markets, including New Hampshire and  Maryland. These expansions reflect Lodestar’s strategy of geographical growth while staying true to their niche of 2–10-megawatt community solar projects rather than large, utility-scale solar farms. This focus allows them to optimize their expertise and resources efficiently.

Each new market presents unique challenges and opportunities, and Ortolano’s legal expertise is crucial in navigating these complexities. By securing the necessary real estate rights permits, ensuring compliance with local regulations, and negotiating with stakeholders, she helps pave the way for these projects to proceed smoothly.

“The strategic expansion diversifies Lodestar’s portfolio and strengthens its position in the renewable energy sector,” she says.

Supporting team success

Ortolano’s leadership at Lodestar Energy goes beyond her role. She plays a crucial part in nurturing and guiding the company’s employees, focusing on mentoring women and promoting diversity. This commitment extends to selecting outside counsel and vendors, ensuring that the company benefits from various perspectives and expertise.

Ortolano leads a small yet highly effective legal team of two experienced paralegals and herself. The trust and confidence built from working with her colleagues in previous roles fosters a collaborative and cohesive team environment.

“This close-knit structure is essential, especially in a remote working environment where clear communication and a strong company culture are key to success,” Ortolano notes.

In recruiting and retaining talent, Ortolano prioritizes finding individuals who align with the company’s culture and possess strong communication skills. She understands that every member’s contribution is vital, and her focus on recognizing hard work and maintaining a supportive atmosphere ensures that her team remains motivated and productive. By emphasizing a positive and supportive work environment, Ortolano helps her team thrive, even within the constraints of a small team size.

From passion to profession

Ortolano’s journey began with a deep fascination with the law and its potential to effect change. Her interest led her to earn a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Bates College in Maine and a Juris Doctor from the University of Connecticut School of Law.

Upon entering private practice, Ortolano was drawn to real estate development, captivated by its potential to shape communities. This passion was professional and personal, as she believed in the power of development to enhance lives.

Ortolano’s transition to an in-house role at Lodestar Energy allowed her to focus her interests more precisely. Her legal expertise aligned perfectly with her dedication to renewable energy, enabling her to contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Her professional journey is deeply intertwined with her personal life. She met her husband on a site her then-client was interested in developing, a project that never moved forward but became one of her greatest successes. Together, they raise their daughter, a driving force behind Ortolano’s passion for renewable energy. The family enjoys hiking, biking, and outdoor activities, reinforcing Ortolano’s environmental commitment.

“I not only believe that the development of renewable energy is vital to combating the effects of climate change, but I also want to set an example for my daughter that you can do what you love while helping make the world a better place,” she says. “My role at Lodestar allows me to do that with a passionate group of like-minded professionals.”