Best in the Midwest

Meet the Energy Concepts team.

President & Founder

Craig Tarr, Licensed Engineer
Craig Tarr holds a BSME degree from Colorado State University with an emphasis in solar and wind engineering. Craig brings a rare combination of passion and formal engineering expertise into the renewable industry.

A licensed engineer in 11 states, Craig is a LEED and NABCEF certified and practiced professional who has managed over $300 million of design and construction projects in 25 years.

In recognition of his contributions in elevating the standards of renewable energy, Craig was awarded the coveted WI Market Provider Of The Year honors by the Midwest Renewable Energy Association in 2009.

Working with Craig one will immediately be infused with his passion and will be at ease with his competence.

Sales Team

Jon Richter, Sales Manager
Jon provides on-site consulting to define your unique needs. Jon holds a B.S. degree from the University of Minnesota and certification in wind, solar electric and solar thermal assessment. Talk with Jon and you’ll realize he is an expert in product applications, construction, and customer service.

Al Christensen, Sales
Jon provides on-site consulting to define your unique needs. Jon holds a B.S. degree from the University of Minnesota and certification in wind, solar electric and solar thermal assessment. Talk with Jon and you’ll realize he is an expert in product applications, construction, and customer service.

Operations

Russell Gilhers, Operations Director
Successful construction requires seamless coordination. Russell is like a symphony conductor as he designs, procures and manages field efforts to ensure everything happens as planned without compromises in quality. Russell carries a unique set of credentials; he is both an electrical engineer and journeyman electrician. You’ll love the music his efforts make happen.

Amory Tarr - Computers
A new addition to the Energy Concepts team. Amory's computer savvy will keep Energy Concepts social networking and website cutting edge.

Behind the Scenes

Claudia Mahon, Office Manager
Claudia’s experience includes 16 years in advertising and 4 years as personal assistant to Rebecca Kolls of ABC’s Good Morning America. Claudia’s business knowledge and attention to detail contribute to the high level of customer service excellence. Your first impression of Energy Concepts will likely be Claudia; you’ll know you found the right company.

Gretchen Kohen, CFO
With over 25 years of leadership roles ranging from start-ups to fortune 500, Gretchen’s business savvy has helped propel Energy Concept’s accent into one of the Midwest’s leading renewable energy companies.

In the Field

Paul Steiner
Once you design the perfect system using the finest components available, you need a master craftsman installing it. With 30 years of experience, Paul has built Steiner Plumbing, Heating and Electric into the regions finest.

With over $3 million in annual contracting, including $750,000 in renewable energy, ‘Steiner’ offers professional craftsmanship with a personal touch. Once Paul hits a jobsite you know immediately you are dealing with a skill and integrity.

Matt Steiner
Matt is a journeyman electrician who grew up under the guidance of his father, Paul. Through years of real-world experience and formal study, Matt is now a craftsman in his own right. When Matt unloads his tools and starts the “Steiner Trot”, you will relax knowing a professional is in control.