Faces of Solar: Patrick Tata, Associate Project Manager at Continental Energy Solutions
- Solar Powers Illinois
- 6 hours ago
- 3 min read
Key Takeaways:
Patrick Tata is the Associate Project Manager at Continental Energy Solutions, Policy Committee Member of the Illinois Solar Energy & Storage Association (ISEA), and President of the ISEA Young Professionals Council.
Patrick continues to inspire others to get involved with clean energy by being a part of the Illinois Shines Mentorship Program.
He believes that the next phase of clean energy beyond Illinois’ landmark Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (CRGA) must focus on electronic waste and what we do at the end of the current renewable energy lifecycle.
Patrick Tata sees the sun rising on the future of clean energy in Illinois and has a deep passion for the industry as he helps guide its future. His passion for clean energy did not start in the workplace or at home. Instead, it started in the classroom.
"I had an environmental study class during my undergraduate year that really opened my eyes to the environmental concerns facing this and future generations,” he said. This course inspired Patrick to obtain his master's degree in environmental policy & management and pursue a career in clean energy, leading to his current role at Continental Energy Solutions (CES).
Patrick has had multiple roles at CES. Initially beginning at the company as a cost estimator, he now works as an associate manager, taking interest in state and federal compliance.
The Future of Clean Energy
Not only does Patrick believe the solar industry is here to stay, but he recognizes that the industry is evolving.
“We have seen major changes to our industry from policy, business, economics,” Patrick said.
Patrick emphasizes the importance of recognizing the evolution of the industry alongside the rise of new policies and clean energy technologies. However, he also underscores the need for the industry to consider how it evolves and consider how it manages past materials.
“We cannot define a 100% clean energy future only by how many panels or batteries we install,” Patrick said, “But we also need to plan for how those panels, batteries, inverters, and electronics are decommissioned, recycled, and re-enter the clean energy industry.”
Additionally, as president of the Illinois Solar Energy & Storage Association (ISEA) Young Professionals Council (YPC) and a member of the ISEA Policy Committee, Patrick understands the importance of working alongside others in the industry to strengthen the adoption of clean energy.
"Now is the time to pave the foundation, learn the trade, walk the walk, and prepare ourselves for the next big clean energy technology,” Patrick said.
Heading toward the next era of clean energy, Patrick acknowledges Illinois has laid a strong foundation for a cleaner future thanks to legislation like the landmark Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (CRGA).
Patrick’s Advice to Solar Professionals
Patrick believes the foundation that bills like CRGA have built was only possibly because of those who spoke out. He encourages everyone to continue utilizing their voice to make a meaningful difference, whether it be through legislation or advocacy.
“So often we let others make the decisions and choices, when we have the voice and the power to say something and inspire change,” Patrick said.
Patrick helps others find their voice in the industry through participating as a mentor in the Illinois Power Agency mentorship program.
For anyone just joining the clean energy industry or hoping to join in the future, Patrick’s other advice includes:
Early on, learn to say “yes” to opportunities outside your scope. You will learn more along the way!
Ask questions! Often, nobody knows the “perfect” solution, and it is through collaboration that we find progress.
If you see something wrong, try to fix it! Do not wait for others to implement the change you want to see. Own it!
Although the future is far from certain, Patrick maintains that one thing about the industry will never change: There is always a place for people looking to join the industry.
“Regardless of what clean technology it is, the world will need competent people to ensure its adoption is ethical, equitable, and economically valuable,” Patrick said.