DRA brings together South Dakotans from all corners of the state (and the middle!) who demand more clean, renewable and sustainable energy. We support policies that encourage locally-owned and produced renewable energy development and policies that incentivize greater energy efficiency in our buildings.

WHY SHOULD YOU CARE?
Between the short-term cost savings from energy efficiency and longer-term savings from wind and solar, many local and rural communities will benefit from the extra money in South Dakotan’s pockets. Additionally, implementing local and healthy forms of energy will create a diversity of jobs for the immediate and surrounding communities.

Check out these materials to learn more!
• Benefits to Locally-Owned Energy
• Policies to encourage renewable energy development
• First step to saving energy… energy audits!

WHAT HAVE WE DONE?
Through educational meetings and articles, we have reached out to people who have installed renewable energy systems and those who eagerly want to. We have found that the lack of locally owned renewable energy development results not from lack of education or awareness of what is possible. Rather, there are too many barriers for local farmers, ranchers and citizens to invest in renewable energy.

We are fighting to knock down those barriers, by organizing campaigns to advocate for better renewable energy policy in South Dakota. Check out all we have done:
• Want to know what other South Dakotans have done to use renewable energy and decrease their electric bill?
• DRA hosted five community meetings across the state. We brought some of the leading regional experts in renewable energy development and policy.
• We hosted a large energy fair at the Straw Bale House in Brookings.

If you’re interested in becoming involved, or just want to learn more, join DRA and contact Sabrina at sabrina@dakotarural.org or 605.716.2200. These barriers will not fall without an organized citizen effort, with a wide variety of South Dakotans, so don’t hesitate!