Rising Renewable Energy Star: Jessie Rule
Scarborough native Jessie Rule witnessed climate change’s impact on Maine’s fishing families firsthand as the daughter of a lobsterman. Her coastal childhood experiences and learning about climate change effects on Maine’s ocean, land and people inspired the now 25-year-old to take climate action and pursue a career in renewable energy.
After earning a B.S. in Ecology and Environmental Science from University of Maine, Jessie volunteered with Americorps, promoting energy efficiency. Jessie joined Revision Energy’s Montville branch in 2019 as a solar installer. When she’s not leading solar installations on rooftops around the state, Jessie is training to become a licensed electrician through Revision’s in-house Energy Electrical Apprentice Program.
How did growing up on the coast inspire your climate action-driven career path?
As a kid, I believe that I took growing up on the coast for granted. The beaches and the sea were always available to me. Once I began to learn about climate change and its effects on people, land, and the sea, it became an important issue to me. My father made his living off of lobstering for most of his life. The health of the lobsters and their ecosystem was essential to my family's success and wellbeing, which brought home these climate change effects. While he has since left this field of work, the facts remain that climate change is affecting Maine's coastal waters at increasing rates, and the health of Maine's people and economy depends on us doing something about it.
What do you like most about completing a solar installation?
The best part about installing a solar system is walking away knowing that the customer is making their own electricity, and quite possibly making money via credits. Many customers are surprised to learn that their system is immediately operational. I love driving around Maine and seeing arrays that I have installed or been a part of. I was even a part of the installation at the Blaine House!
What is the most important thing Mainers should know about renewable energy?
That it's not as complicated and scary as it may seem to own your own electricity production. Solar, specifically, is becoming more efficient, cost effective, and easy to install as time goes on. Also, if your home is not suitable for solar, that is not the end of the road. Community Solar Farms are a great option for those who cannot have solar at their home, or are renters.
What does your family think about your career path?
My family is supportive of my career path! It may not be exactly what they expected me to do with a four year degree in environmental science but they know that I love it and are happy for me. My mom and stepdad are actually in the process of signing a contract for a solar system of their own! My grandparents think it’s hilarious that I drive a big box truck and lead a crew of guys and work on a roof everyday.