Solar energy's direct benefits are well known. But Bob Blake, CEO of solar installation company Solar Bear, and Executive Director of Native Sun Community Power Development, has a much more expansive vision for the Red Lake Nation (in Minnesota) and other tribal nations. In our interview with Bob, we learn how he's using solar to reduce energy burden, do workforce development, and address poverty on tribal lands, in addition to contributing to a more resilient energy system.

Resources:

• Solar Bear website
• Native Sun Community Power Development website
• Red Lake Solar Project: Aspiring to energy sovereignty (video and article from Clean Energy Economy, MN)
• MN House of Representatives - HF 1647 bill (mentioned during interview)