Karin Burns

Karin Burns has worked in climate, energy, and investment for over 20 years. She is a three-time chief executive focused on operating results. As CEO of San Diego Community Power from April 2022 to September 2026, Karin led a public agency serving nearly one million customer accounts. She still advises its transition. Revenue surpassed $1 billion from about $385 million, reserves passed $500 million from approximately $42 million (June 2022), and employee numbers approached 100. She supported a 2035 clean and renewable power plan, securing over 1 GW of renewable power agreements and 1.5 GW of battery storage commitments. She previously served as CEO of Build It Green, where revenue doubled to $22 million, and profitability lasted four years. After selling most assets to Franklin Energy, Karin oversaw programs in six states and then supported mergers and acquisitions. As Executive Director and Board Member, Karin guided Code REDD's conservation work. Her Stand for Trees campaign promoted voluntary carbon credit sales. Earlier positions at JPMorgan Chase, GE Equity, i2i Capital, Gulf Capital, and Ambata Capital Partners involved investing and advisory work. Transactions included a $1.1 billion cross-border deal, an electric vehicle company sale, and investment exits returning 3.5x and 2.5x. Karin's investment work spans clean power, electric vehicles, energy efficiency, green buildings, and carbon markets, shaping her approach to capital. Her public discussions focus on energy markets and leadership. She has also guided AI policy and Microsoft 365 Copilot deployment.