1. Tell us about your organization.
HDR is a global employee-owned engineering, architecture, environmental and consulting firm specializing in infrastructure, energy, industrial, water, transportation and community development. For more than a century, HDR has partnered with clients to deliver sustainable solutions that improve communities and support economic growth. In the renewable energy sector, HDR provides planning, surveying, right of way / land agent, public outreach, environmental permitting, engineering, transmission, substation, energy storage, and construction support services that help advance clean energy projects from concept through operation.
To learn more about HDR’s renewable energy services and experience, visit HDR — Renewables Qualifications.
2. What types of renewable energy does your organization focus on?
HDR supports a diverse range of renewable and emerging energy technologies, including:
- Wind Energy
- Solar Energy
- Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
- Hydrogen and Emerging Energy Technologies
- Renewable Natural Gas (RNG)
- Biofuels
- Carbon Capture and Decarbonization Initiatives
- Electric Transmission and Grid Modernization Infrastructure
3. What inspired your organization to get involved in renewable energy?
HDR's commitment to renewable energy is rooted in helping clients solve complex infrastructure challenges while creating sustainable solutions for future generations. As energy markets evolve and demand for cleaner energy sources increases, HDR has matched the need with our expertise to support renewable generation, transmission expansion, energy storage and grid modernization. Today, HDR continues to help utilities, developers, cooperatives, and public agencies navigate the energy transition while maintaining reliability and affordability.
4. What motivated you to become a member of SoDak Renewables?
HDR joined SoDak Renewables to support the growth of South Dakota's renewable energy industry and strengthen relationships with organizations committed to advancing the state's energy future. Membership provides valuable opportunities to collaborate with industry leaders, stay informed on emerging trends and contribute technical expertise to discussions impacting renewable energy development throughout the region.
5. What developments in South Dakota’s renewable energy future are you most excited about?
We are excited by the continued growth of renewable generation, energy storage, and transmission infrastructure across South Dakota and the Upper Midwest. Advancements in grid modernization, regional transmission expansion, and emerging technologies such as long-duration storage and hydrogen create new opportunities to improve reliability while supporting economic development. South Dakota is well-positioned to play a significant role in the nation's evolving energy landscape.
6. Can you share a recent project, partnership, or initiative that you’re particularly proud of?
HDR is proud to support utilities, cooperatives, and renewable energy developers throughout South Dakota and the surrounding region with projects that enhance and modernize the electric grid. Recent engagements have included transmission expansion, substation development, renewable energy integration studies, right-of-way services, and environmental permitting support for projects that facilitate the reliable delivery of renewable energy resources. Collectively, these initiatives strengthen system resiliency, support economic development, and advance long-term sustainability objectives.
HDR is currently providing engineering design services for a regional utility’s first self-developed solar photovoltaic (PV) generation project and is serving as the Engineer of Record. Throughout the project, HDR has successfully assisted the client in addressing a complex site characterized by limited available space, significant topographical challenges, and high public visibility.
As the utility’s inaugural project of this nature, HDR has served as a trusted advisor throughout the development process, providing technical guidance on critical design decisions, proactively identifying and mitigating potential challenges, and offering informed recommendations at key project milestones. Through close collaboration and a thorough understanding of the utility’s objectives and constraints, HDR has become an extension of the client’s team, delivering a solution that not only meets current project requirements but also establishes a strong foundation for the successful execution of future renewable energy initiatives.
To learn more about HDR and our renewable energy capabilities, visit www.hdrinc.com or connect with our local team in South Dakota.
Jake Harens,
Power Market Sector Leader
HDR Engineering, Inc.
703 Main Street, Suite 200
Rapid City, SD
james.harens@hdrinc.com
Lee W. Kaffar, Vice President,
Business Development Manager
HDR Engineering, Inc.
101 South Phillips Avenue, Suite 401
Sioux Falls, SD
Email: lee.kaffar@hdrinc.com