Profiles in Energy Efficiency: Heather Reams

A Q&A with Heather Reams, President of Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions (CRES).

What inspired you to enter the energy efficiency industry?

Working in Washington, D.C., particularly coming from the communications world, I recognized a partisan gap in the voices leading the clean energy discussion. I knew Republicans had good ideas and strong feelings about our nation’s energy and climate future. At Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions (CRES), our work has made it clear that Republicans do believe in climate change, and we’ve helped these voices emerge, bringing pragmatic solutions to the table.

Can you share your journey from the early stages of your career to where you are now?

Like many who work in and around politics in D.C., I began on Capitol Hill and spent time on both the House and Senate sides. With this experience, I transitioned to the public affairs space and discovered a passion for nonprofit work. This passion led me to CRES, where I have been championing conservative clean energy solutions for nearly a decade.

What challenges did you face as an entrepreneur in this sector, and how did you overcome them?

Naturally, navigating the clean energy industry as a Republican has had its fair share of challenges. The first barrier we had to overcome was changing the narrative about how Republicans view climate change.

Next, it was critical to identify Republican leaders in the space and find ways to elevate their voices. For instance, Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) is considered the “father” of wind energy. It was our goal to find ways to highlight efforts like his.

Finally, we had to find an avenue to bring leaders together. I worked closely with then Rep. John Curtis (R-Utah) to establish the Conservative Climate Caucus, creating an opportunity for members to advocate for commonsense, clean energy solutions, highlight clean energy successes in their home districts, and educate fellow Republicans on climate policies and legislation.

How does your company contribute to advancing energy efficiency solutions?

CRES was established in 2013 to engage Republican policymakers and the public about responsible, conservative solutions to address challenges in our nation’s energy, economic, and environmental security while increasing America’s competitive edge. At CRES, we understand that energy affects every facet of American life, and our goal is to help advance policies to make energy more affordable and reliable—all while lowering global emissions.

At its core, energy efficiency aligns with conservative values and Republicans have long supported policies that ensure we are using our resources wisely. We remind Republicans of this and stress that energy efficiency is commonsense, because after all, the cheapest electron is the electron we don’t use.

What are some innovative projects or technologies your company has developed or implemented?

In 2017, we launched the first ever National Clean Energy Week (NCEW), which is a week-long, bipartisan celebration of clean energy innovation nationwide. Since its inception, NCEW has featured members of Congress, administration officials, cabinet secretaries, and industry leaders as speakers and panelists to highlight clean energy advancements and address industry challenges.

How do you see the energy efficiency industry evolving in the next five to ten years?

Demand for energy is growing rapidly due, in large part, to data centers and electrification. Renewables and energy efficiency can help meet that demand quickly. Now is moment to articulate the message of the importance of these critical solutions and to deploy them strategically.

What leadership principles have guided you in growing your business?

The value of new ideas and creativity drives our work at CRES, and much of the work in the clean energy space. We are forging a path that requires innovative solutions to longstanding challenges. This creative nature has helped us find successful ways to engage with Republicans from all ends of the political spectrum, and that support will be critical as the industry continues to expand.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter the energy sector?

Don’t be intimidated. The work we do in this space is relevant to everyone and it’s largely bipartisan. But most of all it’s fun! Focusing on the projects and innovation of the future is exciting and worthwhile.

Can you share a significant lesson you've learned from a business setback or challenge?

Members of Congress need to be met where they are on energy policy. It’s important to create a dialogue and the most productive conversations begin with close listening. People can be convinced of new ideas and solutions, but the approach always must be tailored.

How do you see your work impacting communities and the broader energy landscape?

The work we’re doing impacts every corner of our country. We’ve been very focused protecting clean energy tax credits because of the positive economic impact they have on local communities. These long-term, reliable tax incentives have spurred private investments, creating new job opportunities and increasing American competitiveness.

Are there any mentorship or community initiatives you’re involved in?

I was the first employee at CRES and now there are about 25 team members, many of whom are early in their careers, so I am constantly mentoring my team—and learning from them as I facilitate their growth.

What legacy do you hope to leave in the energy efficiency space?

I hope to make energy issues much more bipartisan. Because the work we do now will affect every American, regardless of party affiliation, for generations to come.

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