Twenty-five years ago, I took a leap of faith and founded Utah Clean Energy. At the time, many viewed it as an audacious move to dive headfirst into the wonky world of clean energy and climate change in the state of Utah. Looking back, Â that decision became one of the most rewarding of my life, setting me on an adventure I never expected.
When I started this journey in 2001, nearly 95% of the electricity generated in Utah was from coal. We had virtually no renewable energy built. Electric vehicles were a thing from the movies. People’s understanding of energy efficiency was mostly relegated to quirky light bulbs. And talking about climate change? Not the easiest conversation starter.
Look at how far we have come. Today, Utah has harnessed enough new renewable energy to power nearly one million homes. Electric vehicles of all types travel on our roads daily. Local energy efficiency programs save families and businesses millions of dollars and prevent millions of tons of carbon emissions every year. These aren’t just numbers; they represent healthier communities, cleaner air, and a path to a better future for all of us.
Utah Clean Energy has grown alongside Utah’s transformation. What started as a small, scrappy volunteer team has emerged as one of Utah’s leading advocacy organizations. We serve as connectors, conveners, and trusted experts. We have built partnerships across political divides and shaped game-changing policies that move us toward a pollution-free future, all while staying true to our vision of healthy, thriving communities empowered by clean energy.
Celebrating 25 Years of Impact and Powering Forward
This year marks Utah Clean Energy’s 25th anniversary, and with it, the beginning of a new chapter. In the spring of this year, I will be stepping down as CEO.
I’ve always said that climate change represents both our greatest challenge and our greatest opportunity to build a better world. Utah Clean Energy’s work is far from finished. In fact, some of our most important work lies ahead.  While the political headwinds we face are real, the progress we’ve made is unstoppable, and I truly believe the best is yet to come. Â
The next chapter isn’t just about continuing this work. It is about accelerating our momentum even further. Leading this incredible organization has been the adventure of a lifetime, and I am so proud of all we have accomplished together. Above all, I am excited about what we can collectively achieve for our climate, our communities, and our shared future.
Sarah Wright
Founder and CEO, Utah Clean Energy
We would like to clarify that Utah Clean Energy is not a solar company. We are a nonprofit organization that advocates for solar and other clean energy technologies, but we do not install or sell solar in any way.