First Wind

About First Wind

First Wind was an independent North American renewable energy company founded in 2002 that specialized in the development, ownership, and operation of utility-scale clean energy projects. The company's business model revolved around developing and operating renewable energy projects, initially focusing on wind power before expanding into solar projects in 2014. It generated revenue by selling the clean energy produced to utilities under long-term agreements. First Wind's primary clients were utility companies, and it operated in the renewable energy market across the United States, with a focus on the northeastern and western regions, as well as Hawaii.

Paul Gaynor led the company as CEO from 2004. His background includes a degree in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA in Finance and Economics, which provided a strong foundation for leading an energy-focused enterprise. Before First Wind, Gaynor held leadership positions in the energy industry, including roles at GE Capital and PSG International. This experience in energy finance and project development was directly relevant to First Wind's growth. Under his leadership, the company grew from a small 25-person development firm into a major player with a portfolio that eventually reached nearly 1,300 megawatts of combined capacity.

The company's core service was the development and operation of wind and solar farms. A key aspect of their strategy was proactive communication and strategic engagement with local communities to facilitate project development. At its peak, First Wind employed over 220 people and had a significant project pipeline. A major milestone in the company's history occurred in November 2014, when it was acquired by SunEdison and its yieldco, TerraForm Power, for $2.4 billion. This acquisition transformed SunEdison into the world's leading renewable energy developer at the time. Following the acquisition, Paul Gaynor became the Executive Vice President of North America Utility and Global Wind at SunEdison. In 2016, Gaynor and three other former First Wind colleagues went on to found Longroad Energy Partners, a new venture focused on developing wind, solar, and storage projects.