People

Powerhouse has built the most extensive network of clean energy and mobility founders, corporate leaders, and investors in the country. Together, we’re creating an energy and mobility system that’s decarbonized, democratized, and digitized.

The Powerhouse Team

Emily Kirsch

Founder & CEO, Powerhouse

Entrepreneur, advisor, and investor. Worked with Van Jones, former advisor to President Obama, on clean energy projects across California. World Economic Forum Young Global Leader and serves on the Investment Advisory Board of NYSERDA.

Chris Perrault

Senior Vice President of Strategy & Operations, Powerhouse

Leading Powerhouse’s growth and empowering our clients to be leaders in climate tech innovation today. Over two decades of experience building teams at the forefront of clean energy, including most recently as COO of CleanChoice Energy. Formerly with Direct Energy, AES NewEnergy, and PepsiCo.

Octavi Semonin, Ph.D.

Senior Director, Technology and Client Services, Powerhouse

Innovation data, technology landscape, and corporate partnerships. Over a decade of experience in photovoltaics research, development, and manufacturing. Formerly with Alta Devices, Columbia University, and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

Michael Kendzierski

Head of Sales, Powerhouse

Leading Powerhouse’s sales strategy and execution and collaborating on product development. Over a decade of experience in commercializing emerging energy technologies including solar PV, energy storage and energy efficiency solutions. Most recently served as Senior Business Development Manager at Greensmith and Wärtsilä Energy Storage businesses.

Alexandra van Alebeek

Manager, Opperations & Communication, Powerhouse

Communications and operations for Powerhouse. Former operations leader at various early-stage start-ups in the software and alternative materials spaces. Bachelor’s and Master’s from Stanford University in environmental science.

Cameron Peterkin

Senior Associate, Powerhouse

Business development, emerging technology research, and innovation scouting for Powerhouse. Previously emerging technology research, financial analysis, startup sourcing, and corporate development with BCI Technology Investments, leading due diligence on early stage clean technology hardware opportunities.

Katherine Moldow

Innovation Associate, Powerhouse

Technical diligence deliverables and deal origination for Powerhouse clients, as well as management of the firm’s climate tech startup pipeline. Former early-stage climate investor and corporate consultant at Plug and Play Tech Center. Bachelors and Masters in environmental sciences from Stanford University.

The Powerhouse Ventures Team

Emily Kirsch

Managing Partner, Powerhouse Ventures

Entrepreneur, advisor, and investor. Worked with Van Jones, former advisor to President Obama, on clean energy projects across California. World Economic Forum Young Global Leader and serves on the Investment Advisory Board of NYSERDA.

Marie Thompson

Partner, Powerhouse Ventures

Sourcing and diligence for Powerhouse Ventures. Portfolio engagement and support post-investment. MBA from Berkeley Haas, formerly in strategic planning at Apache Corporation and sales strategy at Bloom Energy.

Gabriel VanLoozen

SENIOR ASSOCIATE, POWERHOUSE VENTURES

Sourcing, diligence, and post-investment support for Powerhouse Ventures. JD/MBA from University of Michigan with prior experience in multiple functions at Bosch, ENGIE, Orrick, and Anthesis Group.

Gabe Cuadra

SENIOR ASSOCIATE, POWERHOUSE VENTURES

Sourcing, diligence, and post-investment support for Powerhouse Ventures. Previously provided utilities research and advisory services related to demand-side management, transportation electrification, and building electrification in various roles at E Source. Returned US Peace Corps volunteer.

Shaandiin Cedar

SENIOR ASSOCIATE, POWERHOUSE VENTURES

Sourcing, diligence, and post-investment support for Powerhouse Ventures. Previously worked with utilities, developers, and Fortune 1000 corporate sustainability teams at GreenBiz Group. Cleantech writer and Diné (Navajo) tribal member focused on equity and renewable energy development with tribes.

Jessica Makolin

Operations and Communications Manager, POWERHOUSE VENTURES

Communications, operations, and executive administration for Powerhouse Ventures. Previous experience across multiple functions within the renewable energy and ocean solutions spaces.

Noemi de Campos Walzebuck

Graduate Associate, POWERHOUSE VENTURES

Sourcing, diligence, and fund operations support for Powerhouse Ventures. Previous experience in product marketing at climate and enterprise tech startups and as an investor at Bessemer Venture Partners. MBA from London Business School and BS/MS from Stanford University.