Welcome to our Meet the CEO series of brief interviews with Activate portfolio company leaders. This interview features PosiGen CEO Peter Shaper. PosiGen, a certified B Corporation, is the nation’s leading residential solar and energy efficiency provider for low-to-moderate income homeowners.
Peter has been in leadership positions for over twenty years and is a founding partner of private equity investment group Genesis Park and a founder of Information Management Group. He holds a BS in Engineering from Stanford and an MBA from Harvard.
After the challenge you’re currently addressing, what is the second most important challenge facing the world right now?
Peter: One of the world’s most pressing challenges today is economic uncertainty, driven by shifting policies and market instability that impact both our local and global communities. At PosiGen, we see energy equity as a solution, as the working class communities we serve are hardest hit by economic disruption. By making solar energy affordable for all, we lower energy costs, empower underserved families, and create green jobs—doubling our impact in the communities we serve. Our mission goes beyond sustainability—it’s about creating a fair, resilient, green economy where everyone has the chance to thrive, one that drives lasting stability and growth worldwide.
When seeking investment, what’s the most important piece of advice you’d offer to companies like yours?
Peter: I’ve learned that balancing the paradox of consistency to mission with continuous change and improvement is crucial. The one thing we know about any financial model we produce is that business will not proceed as predicted and investors want to back management teams that pivot wisely while staying mission-focused. Challenges are inevitable and overreacting to them doesn’t help—a measured response is key. Management teams that are curious about their business drivers at detailed levels have an advantage in adapting to constant changes. Ultimately, being flexible and adaptable while keeping the long-term vision in mind has been key in attracting the right investors and setting up sustainable growth.
What motivated you to try to solve the complex challenges your company is addressing?
Peter: What motivates me is the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of underserved families, while building a big business. At PosiGen, we’re driven by a mission to provide solar for all, especially underserved communities. This purpose of saving clients money on energy is life-changing and gives our employees a sense of meaning, knowing they contribute to something greater than just earning a paycheck. By helping customers save money and reduce their environmental footprint, we’re supporting both their well-being and global sustainability. Ultimately, our mission helps us provide meaningful careers, not just jobs, and creates a passionate company culture where employees drive positive change on both small and large scales.
If you weren’t in your current job, what would you be doing?
Peter: I’d first take some time to be with my family and recharge. After that, I’d look for another opportunity where I can continue making a difference. My experience at PosiGen has shown me how fulfilling it is to build a business that drives real positive change. I would seek out a role that allows me to contribute to a purpose-driven mission and make a meaningful impact, just as we do here. Making a difference for both employees and clients truly motivates me, and I’d want that in whatever comes next.
Why did you choose to partner with Activate Capital, and what has your experience been working with our team?
Peter: We chose to partner with Activate Capital because you are one of those rare investors who truly shares our commitment to building a scalable and sustainable business that also contributes to the greater good. It’s not just about making money—it’s about aligning with our values and mission to make a positive impact. Our experience working with your team has been exceptional. You’ve been insightful, patient, professional, hard working and consistently supportive throughout our partnership. Your approach has been key to our ability to grow and achieve our goals while staying focused on our mission.
Welcome to our Meet the CEO series of brief interviews with Activate portfolio company leaders. This interview features PosiGen CEO Peter Shaper. PosiGen, a certified B Corporation, is the nation’s leading residential solar and energy efficiency provider for low-to-moderate income homeowners.