Andrew Chester is the founder and CEO of Telyon, a solar energy development company, in joint venture partnership with Goldman Sachs, which raised an initial capital commitment of nearly $300 million.
Telyon is focused on owning and operating solar energy assets and assisting companies around the world with their clean energy initiatives through the development of solar, battery storage, EV charging and energy efficiency measures. As CEO, Chester touches all corners of the business including finance, business development, construction execution, asset management and more.
What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career?
In the past, I would have responded with growing Greenskies into one of the largest commercial and industrial solar companies and successfully exiting. But recently, I have learned that my biggest accomplishment has been doing it again – partnering with a global bank to create Telyon and growing it into another industry leading platform.
How are you involved in the community?
As a resident of Old Saybrook, I’m a proud member of the Chamber of Commerce as well as the Progressive Leaders of Today (PLOT) group. I’m also an active member of the Advisory Council for the Grenon School of Business at Assumption University.
What do you like to do outside of work?
When not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I love to travel and I am an avid skier in the winter months and an avid boater in the warmer months as well as being a mediocre golfer.
Why do you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty?
• Started a company at 23 years old, grew it 100-plus employees and brought it to a successful nine-figure-plus exit.
• Successfully raised nearly $300 million from Goldman Sachs and founded a new platform company, Telyon.
• Negotiated and closed the largest (at the time) commercial and industrial solar energy portfolio deal (100-plus MWs).
• Negotiated and signed a master agreement for nationwide work with Amazon within Telyon’s first year of operation.
Fun Fact
I have an affinity for geography and maps.
Theme Song
“Here Comes the Sun” – The Beatles
Bucket List
What are two things that you would like to achieve before you turn 40?
I’d like to create a philanthropic foundation and attend The Masters.
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