Andris “Andy” Cukurs is a visionary with a passion for wind energy, and a commitment to energy independence and clean energy for homes, schools, and businesses across America.  His integral and customer-centric approach has earned him accolades among his wind energy peers and customers. 

As CEO for Suzlon Wind Energy Corporation, Mr. Cukurs provides strategic direction for the North American Operations which includes more than 450 employees across 20 offices. Under his leadership the company has become an authority in delivering wind power projects, with cumulative installtions totalling more than 1700 MW in 14 states across the nation. 

As a senior executive, Mr. Cukurs has nearly 25 years of management and engineering experience, with the last 11 years in the wind energy industry.  Before joining Suzlon in 2004, Cukurs served as CEO of NEG Micon Wind Energy Corporation of North America, where he oversaw sales and construction. Prior to that, Cukurs focused on providing design, engineering, and construction services to the food processing industry.

A Chicago native, Mr. Cukurs graduated from University of Illinois with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Chicago. 

As a recognized expert and veteran in wind, he is frequently invited to speak at events sponsored by the American Wind Energy Association, serves on Chicago’s Renewal Energy Board and recently joined ACORE’s Leadership Council.