Catalyze teams up with Cushman & Wakefield to boost solar energy adoption in US commercial sectors

Catalyze, an innovative developer and Independent Power Producer (IPP) of distributed renewable energy assets, has entered into a strategic partnership with global real estate services giant Cushman & Wakefield. This collaboration is set to enhance the deployment of solar and storage technologies across the commercial and industrial (C&I) real estate landscapes in the United States, aiming to improve operating incomes, decrease utility expenses, meet ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) objectives, and reduce the load on the existing power grid.

A dedicated team from Cushman & Wakefield, led by Nick Zarnin, Jonathan Serko, Gary Greenspan, and Gene Slageter, will join forces with Catalyze’s team, under the direction of Mike Williams, Bob Stickney, and Jimmy Joe Granito. This alliance will focus on identifying and capturing new opportunities for renewable energy installations by leveraging Cushman & Wakefield’s vast network, deep industry expertise, and strategic insights to expand Catalyze’s reach and accessibility in the renewable energy sector.

Jared Haines, CEO of Catalyze, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting its potential to accelerate renewable energy adoption among C&I clients. “This is a pivotal step towards fulfilling our mission of increasing renewable energy uptake, benefiting both tenants and building owners,” said Haines. “Cushman & Wakefield’s ability to help clients achieve their ESG goals while also boosting their Net Operating Income through innovative lease and rental agreements for installation sites is a game changer.”

The real estate industry is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for about 40% of the total. Cushman & Wakefield has set ambitious goals to reduce these emissions not only within its operations but also in managed facilities, representing some of the world’s most prominent commercial real estate owners. This partnership is aligned with Cushman & Wakefield’s commitment to offering integrated sustainability solutions that aid clients in achieving net-zero targets, reducing operational costs, and enhancing property values.

Jessica Francisco, Chief Sustainability Officer at Cushman & Wakefield, underscored the importance of the partnership in the broader context of sustainable real estate development. “Our collaboration with Catalyze reflects our joint dedication to leading the clean energy revolution in the real estate sector. We are committed to advancing the adoption of solar and storage solutions, which will help drive down costs and support our clients’ sustainability efforts,” stated Francisco.

The partnership is already showing promise with Catalyze’s recent announcement of a new solar and storage project at 66 Galen, a life science building in Watertown, Massachusetts, marking a significant milestone in their continued expansion in the C&I sector.