Tara Donadio

Tara Donadio is Senior Manager of Policy & Programs, where she leads building decarbonization policies and programs across the region. She serves as NEEP’s convener of the New England Heat Pump Accelerator, a major regional initiative to scale the adoption of high-performance heat pumps and support ambitious state climate and energy goals. In this role, Tara develops strategies, oversees the creation of resources, facilitates stakeholder working groups, and collaborates with state energy offices, utilities, advocates, and industry partners to advance equitable building decarbonization.

Prior to joining NEEP, Tara served as Assistant Director of Sustainability at the Capital District Regional Planning Commission (CDRPC), where she supported municipalities on clean energy and climate initiatives through state programs, managing projects ranging from building efficiency to EV infrastructure and climate planning. She led regional efforts such as the 2022 Capital Region Greenhouse Gas Inventory and Climate Action Plan. Earlier in her career, she worked with Cornell Cooperative Extension and Audubon International on community energy, conservation, and sustainability programs.

Tara holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Policy from American University and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with a concentration in Atmospheric Sciences from the University at Albany. She also serves on the City of Albany’s Sustainability Commission.

Q: What book is currently on your nightstand?

A: I hope audiobooks count! I’m currently re-reading (for the umpteenth time) The Lord of the Rings series.

Q: What's something about you that would surprise us?

A: I love furniture refinishing and woodworking in particular.  I’m an amateur but it’s a long-term goal to improve my skills.

Q: If you could spend one week anywhere in the world, where would it be? Why?

A: Somewhere in the Yukon—the remoteness and vastness of the landscape are incredibly appealing.