Meet Our Coaches
These are Newburyport’s volunteer energy coaches, trained to provide free, one-on-one energy coaching to residents. Whether you’re curious about rooftop solar, community solar, heat pumps, or energy efficiency upgrades, our coaches are here to help you make informed decisions and take advantage of available Mass Save rebates and federal incentives.
Michael Strauss
Michael is a scientist/engineer by profession and today primarily does consulting and contract research.
He has always been interested in — and has at times worked in — clean energy at the research and development level. Michael believes it is just as important to focus on the adoption of clean energy technologies as it is to develop them.
Fun fact: Michael plays the trombone professionally and also publishes work on the science of playing brass instruments.
Mike Spiro
Mike works for Nexamp, a community solar provider, and serves on the Newburyport Energy Advisory Committee. He’s currently in the process of electrifying his 1850s home — a true hands-on journey into energy efficiency!
Mike is passionate about helping residents navigate the often overwhelming decisions around clean energy upgrades. With both professional insight and personal experience, he’s excited to support homeowners every step of the way.
Fun fact: Mike’s also a fitness enthusiast — he’s building a gym in his garage and training for a triathlon!
Don Walters
Don brings over 50 years of experience in the power generation industry, with deep knowledge across both fossil and renewable energy sources. He’s held leadership roles throughout his career, including serving as Chief Development Officer for a renewable energy company that developed, owned, and operated clean energy projects.
Don’s extensive background makes him a powerful resource for residents looking to make informed, confident choices about their home energy upgrades.
Fun fact: With a lifetime in the energy industry, Don now enjoys spending his energy summiting the mountains in New England.
Molly Ettenborough
Molly is the Sustainability Manager for the City of Newburyport, where she leads solid waste, recycling, composting, and citywide energy efficiency efforts. She also manages the city’s Green Communities program and municipal energy procurement, while playing an active role on the Resiliency Committee.
With decades of experience in the energy sector — including her time as General Manager at Citizens Energy — Molly brings both policy expertise and deep community commitment to her work.
Fun fact: Outside of work, Molly enjoys biking, skiing, tennis, and spending time with her dogs and family.
Nicki Girouard
Nicki is a longtime Newburyport resident and active member of the community. With 40 years of experience as a plastics engineer and manager for a major military subcontractor, she brings a unique perspective to her work as a Clean Energy Counselor.
Her background in research, design, and leadership development — along with deep insight into the environmental impact of plastics — inspires her commitment to ACES and the CEC program. Nicki is especially passionate about supporting older adults and promoting energy efficiency throughout the community.
Fun fact: Nicki’s work today is all about helping turn knowledge into action — right here in Newburyport.