Jeff Kirks

Jeff Kirks brings extensive expertise in renewable energy project development and financing to his role at Guaranteed Community Advisors (GCA). For the past four years, Jeff served as Vice President of Government Programs and spearheaded initiatives like the Sustainable Communities Network aimed at helping municipalities, and communities reduce electricity costs through solar and storage solutions. Jeff also developed the pioneering "Muni-Resi" solar program while at a company later acquired by Electriq. This innovative model laid the groundwork for offering comprehensive renewable energy and efficiency upgrades to communities with no upfront costs. Jeff's passion for sustainability transcends just renewable technology - he is an invested partner in NetZero, a qualified opportunity zone fund. NetZero has provided financing for impactful projects like the SEDC program and Isabela Solar Phase 1, both within qualified opportunity zones. Complementing his technical renewable energy expertise is Jeff's extensive business acumen. For over 17 years, he has designed and instructed courses at Kirks Institute on topics like real estate law, strategic planning, tax incentives, and ethics. This well-rounded experience allows him to evaluate projects holistically - merging technical viability with sound financial modeling. Jeff's credentials underscore his commitment to sustainable development practices. He is a certified instructor for the U.S. Green Building Council's credential maintenance program. Kirks Institute, where Jeff is a principal, is an approved USGBC education provider. Jeff holds a Master's in Global Environmental Policy from American University. At GCA, Jeff leverages his multidisciplinary background to structure projects that are technically and economically optimized for enabling communities to meet sustainability goals affordably. His insights into leveraging incentives and financing mechanisms are key assets for GCA's partnership-driven model.