Our History
Originally founded as the South Dakota Wind Energy Association (SDWEA), SoDak Renewables has evolved to encompass all forms of renewable energy that benefit our state. By expanding our focus beyond wind to include solar, biofuels, hydrogen, and storage technologies, we are meeting the needs of a changing energy landscape and supporting South Dakota’s growth in the clean energy sector.
Mission Statement
SoDak Renewables is committed to advancing South Dakota’s clean energy landscape by promoting sustainable wind, solar, biofuel, hydrogen, and energy storage projects. Our mission is to drive economic growth, protect our natural resources, and secure a resilient energy future for all South Dakotans.
Board & Leadership
Our board and leadership team are comprised of industry experts and passionate advocates for renewable energy. Each member brings unique expertise and commitment to advancing clean energy across South Dakota.
Gary R. Fish
President, South Dakota Wind Energy Association
Gary Fish is an experienced energy executive and the owner and founder of Parkview Energy Partners LLC, an asset management firm focused on clean energy. A founding shareholder and former CFO of RENEW Energy Inc., one of the largest independent wind turbine service companies in the U.S., Gary also serves on the Board of Directors for Sioux Valley Energy. He is a partner in COAXIS Energy Company. With a CPA background and nearly 40 years in the energy sector, he has held numerous leadership roles, including 15 years at Black Hills Corporation.
Chris Studer
Chief Member and Public Relations Officer, East River Electric Power Cooperative
Since 2013, Chris has led East River Electric's Member Services Division, handling communications, marketing, and government relations. With a background in media and government affairs, he has been integral to the South Dakota Wind Energy Association’s development and continues to support wind energy as part of a diverse energy mix.
Terry Wolf
Vice President of Power Supply and Operations, Missouri River Energy Services
Terry oversees Missouri River’s power supply and operations, representing the organization in utility groups and advocating for sustainable energy practices. His career spans over 20 years in engineering and management within the energy sector.
Kory Hammerbeck
Operations Manager, Rushmore Electric
Kory Hammerbeck has a strong connection to cooperative principles and has held multiple roles within Rushmore Electric since 2000. As Operations Manager, he oversees the cooperative’s systems and services, drawing from years of experience in systems analysis and technical management.
Doug Sombke
President, South Dakota Farmers Union
Doug Sombke is a fourth-generation farmer dedicated to advocating for family farms. As President of South Dakota Farmers Union since 2005, he has championed agricultural issues at the state and federal levels and currently leads Farmers Union Enterprises, which supports various agribusinesses and rural initiatives.
Steve Willard
Owner, Willard and Associates
Steve leads Willard and Associates, providing management services for associations such as the SD Electric Utility Companies. A lobbyist and active community leader, Steve brings extensive experience in association management, advocacy, and organizational development to the board.
Steve Hansen
Director, H-D Electric Cooperative
With over three decades of service, Steve has guided H-D Electric Cooperative in providing safe, reliable electrical services. Representing South Dakota’s cooperatives on the SDREA board, Steve advocates for the integration of renewables into the state’s energy portfolio.
Yannick Laroche
Production Manager, Marmen Energy
Yannick joined Marmen in 2006 and relocated to South Dakota in 2013 to help establish Marmen Energy’s wind tower manufacturing facility. With a background in engineering and management, Yannick has been pivotal in developing the wind energy sector in the region.
Nick Gladue
Dakota Riggers
Nick has been with Dakota Riggers since 1999, providing equipment for the renewable, construction, and utilities sectors. He has served on various advisory boards and remains committed to supporting safe, effective solutions for industry clients.
Adam Echele
Wind Energy Specialist, Timken Company
Adam supports wind energy owners in managing drivetrain components. With a degree in Mechanical Engineering and a background in sales engineering, he brings valuable technical insights to the board.
Jess Bass Bolander
Vice President, Lockton
With nearly 20 years in healthcare and benefits strategy, Jess brings a unique perspective on organizational solutions, providing value-driven strategies for large employers and complex organizations.
Mark Hofer
Board Member, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association
Mark has represented South Dakota’s electric cooperatives since 2006, leading safety initiatives and helping to innovate cooperative programs. His commitment to service and safety drives his role on the board.
BJ Hanson
Energy Solutions Business Lead, Werner Electric Supply
BJ Hanson is the Energy Solutions Business Leader at Werner Electric Supply, where he leads efforts to integrate innovative energy solutions into commercial and industrial operations. BJ has nearly 20 years of experience in renewable energy, program management, and engineering.
Matt Klein
General Manager, Union County Electric Cooperative
Since 2015, Matt has led Union County Electric Cooperative, improving operational efficiency and reliability for cooperative members. With over 20 years in utilities, he brings leadership in technology and regulatory compliance.
Justin Pickar
Senior Director of Origination, National Grid Renewables
With a background in development and public relations, Justin has helped drive National Grid Renewables' mission to advance sustainable energy solutions, leveraging partnerships and expertise in renewable energy.
Mark Mauersberger
VP of Utility Development, Solar Stone Partners LLC
Mark has developed over 1,500 MW of renewable energy projects across the Midwest and Plains states. He brings hands-on experience in delivering community benefits through sustainable projects.
Dean Bibles
Former Land Manager, Bureau of Land Management
Dean’s career in land management and renewable energy began with the Bureau of Land Management. Recognized for his leadership, he has contributed to national conservation efforts and continues to support sustainable practices.
Meghan Semiao
Director of Asset Management, Longroad Energy
Meghan oversees renewable energy operations nationwide, bringing strategic leadership in asset management. Active in the American Clean Power Association, she supports growth in both wind and solar energy.
Partners and Affiliations
We collaborate with local and national organizations to strengthen South Dakota's clean energy future. Our partners include:
CleanGrid Alliance: Working together to advocate for clean energy policies and projects that benefit the Midwest.
Lake Area Technical College: Supporting education and training initiatives to prepare South Dakota’s workforce for careers in renewable energy.
Mitchell Technical College: Partnering to provide specialized education in renewable energy technologies, ensuring a skilled and informed workforce for South Dakota.