SolaREIT Spotlight: June

Christina Akay

At SolaREIT, our mission to accelerate the clean energy transition is powered by a diverse team of passionate and talented individuals. Each team member is crucial in delivering innovative financing solutions to solar and battery energy storage developers and landowners. As a minority and women-owned business, we know that the unique contributions of every person on our team drive our collective success. 

This month, we're happy to shine the spotlight on Christina Akay, Director of Marketing. Christina brings a diverse professional background and strategic communications expertise to our team, helping to craft and share SolaREIT's story. 

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background. 

My route to clean energy has been anything but linear. I’m a marketer and communicator at heart, and that thread has carried me through public health, a main street retail venture, U.S.–flag maritime shipping, and now to clean energy. My Masters in Public Health showed me the power of clear, compassionate communication and the global nature of our most pressing heath issues, entrepreneurship showed me the momentum a nimble team can create, while years in the shipping industry sharpened my appreciation for efficiency and underscored the urgency of the clean energy transition. Now at SolaREIT, I draw on this mix of marketing, entrepreneurship, and operational know-how to turn our solar and BESS capital solutions into straightforward communications for developers, helping our team make a tangible impact on the sector’s future. 

What inspired you to join SolaREIT?

After working in the shipping industry – an industry desperately trying to figure out how to go green – I was ready to contribute more directly to the clean energy transition. But what really sealed the deal was meeting SolaREIT's leadership team. These are brilliant, visionary people with genuine passion for transforming the industry. I could tell immediately that SolaREIT wasn't just another company; it was something special that I wanted to be part of. 

What has been your most rewarding experience at SolaREIT?

Being part of SolaREIT since our early days has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. Watching the company grow from a small team into a thriving organization with exceptionally talented renewable energy experts has been incredibly fulfilling. Our shared passion for sustainability and our collaborative, solutions-driven approach have created a unique and inspiring culture. It's been particularly gratifying to see how our collective efforts have not only shaped our company but also contributed significantly to the deployment of solar and BESS projects across the country–something that makes a global impact. 

How do you see the future of renewable energy and SolaREIT's role in it?

I’ve learned that working in renewable energy is never boring. There will be setbacks and headwinds, but with growing demand for energy, we need solutions that are fast, affordable, and good for our health and the planet. Renewables are the best option we have. What gives me real optimism is the role SolaREIT plays in supporting developers who are working so hard to make clean energy a reality. We're not only steadfast partners but also innovators in the capital solutions developers need, especially at a time when the industry is facing real challenges. It's rewarding to be part of a team that's truly making a difference. 

What has surprised you most about working at SolaREIT?

One of the most surprising and rewarding aspects of working at SolaREIT is the extraordinary depth of expertise within our team. Each individual brings a unique perspective and specialized knowledge, creating a dynamic environment where innovation thrives. The combination of expertise and purpose driven values has been instrumental in shaping our success– and we have a lot of fun while we're at it. 

What do you enjoy doing outside the office?

I love traveling, whether it's exploring far-off destinations or finding interesting spots closer to home. My family and I spend a lot of time outdoors and love hiking, biking, and getting out on the Chesapeake Bay to boat, paddleboard, or kayak. I'm also an avid reader and (very) amateur tennis player.