Thania Burningham | 30 women to watch in 2024, emerging leader

Project Finance Director | AES
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Thania Burningham began her career in investment banking in New York. This experience exposed her to energy markets and she became interested in renewable energy and project financing. At AES, Thania oversees the acquisition of non-recourse financing necessary to finance the construction and operation of wind, solar and battery projects across the United States. The project financing and capital markets transactions she has completed over the past few years have been some of the largest and most innovative in the industry. She believes that mentoring – especially from female leaders – is important to help women join and advance in the renewable energy industry, which is why she currently serves on the board of Women of AES Clean Energy, and her mission is to support and promote development, education and engagement women.

What is your favorite part of your job?

I love that I’m helping the United States and the world transition to clean, renewable energy. When I joined the energy industry, I had no idea how much work it took to make electricity readily available when you flipped a light switch. This is something we all take for granted. My work has a direct impact on clean energy projects that help make the world a more sustainable place. Combining my knowledge of finance with my company’s impact on sustainability is one of the most rewarding things about my job.

How do you see your role as a woman in your sector or industry?

I am honored to show that women can lead in finance, especially in the context of renewable energy. As an immigrant and woman of color who attended a public school, I am grateful to have been given these opportunities, and I hope that I can encourage others, regardless of their background, to follow the path they choose.