“Meet CanREA’s Board of Directors” is a series of interviews with CanREA’s diverse and experienced Board members.
Suha Jethalal is a member of the Board of Directors of CanREA and sits on the Audit, Finance and Investment Committee and the Governance and Human Resources Committee. Suha is the President of Bullfrog Power Inc., where she drives the commercial and residential adoption of green energy solutions. She has 20+ years of experience in strategy, product and brand management, social entrepreneurism, and sustainability at Bullfrog Power as well as American Express NY, Mercer Management Consulting NY, and Procter & Gamble in Toronto. She holds a B.Sc. in Economics from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, with concentrations in Management and Marketing. Suha Jethalal is based in Toronto, Ontario.
CanREA sat down with Suha Jethalal in May, 2023, to find out what makes her tick and why she chooses to volunteer her time on CanREA’s Board of Directors.
Q. Why did you choose to get into the renewable energy field?
I didn’t plan on it! I just wanted to surround myself with great people and do meaningful work. I met Tom Heintzman, one of Bullfrog Power’s founders, who inspired me to join the team. Since then, I’ve found great purpose in advancing renewable energy in Canada.
In general, I think people are defined by the company they keep and the change they effect at and outside of work. I spend a lot of time with the people I love – my family, friends, and colleagues – and try to leave things better than the way I found them. In that vein, I’m thankful that our work at Bullfrog Power is constantly improving North America’s energy systems, air quality, and emissions footprint.
Q. How long have you been involved in the sector?
I have been working in the renewable energy industry for 14 years, helping organizations and households decarbonize through wind and solar development, renewable thermal solutions, community solar and microgrids.
More recently, I have had the opportunity to delve into the world of power purchase agreements, through which large power users can make new renewable projects viable by contracting directly with developers. I’ve found that people’s motivation to address climate change is growing fast, which fuels innovation and keeps this industry very interesting.
Q. What gets you excited about renewable energy in Canada?
Climate change is the challenge of our generation and now, more than ever, governments, individuals and organizations are ready to act. With public and private collaboration, we can transform our energy future, building a low-carbon economy that will benefit the planet… and everyone on it!
Q. Why did you decide to serve on the CanREA Board?
CanREA’s vision is one that I am passionate about, as well as one that aligns with the work I do on a daily basis. The renewable energy industry is evolving: private (especially corporate) buyers are the key drivers of demand, and the industry is less catered to utilities than historically. My background in understanding and meeting the green energy needs of Canadian businesses can help CanREA and its members find and develop large new opportunities.
Q. Any final comments?
It’s easy to get discouraged about climate change, but don’t forget how many people care deeply about this issue and are making fantastic progress. Every action we take, no matter how small, has the potential to make a huge impact when we’re surrounded by a passionate community. Keep those community connections strong, and watch what happens!
“Meet CanREA’s Board of Directors” is a series of interviews with CanREA’s diverse and experienced Board members. Read more CanREA profiles on our website.