Partners

The University of Minnesota Extension Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships (RSDP) connect Greater Minnesota communities to the University of Minnesota to support local sustainability projects. RSDP brings together community and University knowledge and resources to drive sustainability in four focus areas: agriculture and food systems, clean energy, natural resources and resilient communities. We support local projects through five regional boards made up of community members and University faculty and staff. They also support multi-region food systems and clean energy work across Greater Minnesota.

• CERTs Role: Statewide Office
• Partner Lead: Kathryn Draeger, Director

The Great Plains Institute is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that accelerates the transition to net-zero carbon emissions for the benefit of people, the economy, and the environment. Working across the U.S., they combine a unique consensus-building approach, expert knowledge, research and analysis, and local action to find and implement lasting solutions.

• CERTs Role: Metro CERT
• Partner Lead: Rolf Nordstrom, President & CEO

The Southwest Regional Development Commission (SRDC) provides professional expertise and leadership to enhance regional opportunities. SRDC is a nine county planning and development agency providing services to local units of government, non-profit agencies, and various individuals and groups both public and private sectors throughout the region. Membership is comprised of 36 representatives of townships, cities, counties, school boards and public interest groups.

• CERTs Role: Southwest CERT
• Partner Lead: Jay Trusty, Executive Director

The Minnesota Department of Commerce, Division of Energy Resources works to promote and advance energy efficiency and renewable energy to Minnesota consumers, businesses and policymakers through educational outreach and technical assistance, targeted financial incentives, and demonstrations of market-ready new technologies. The office also is responsible for the state utility-funded Conservation Improvement Program and administers the low-income Weatherization program. Much of their work is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy State Energy Program.

• CERTs Role: Technical Expertise
• Partner Lead: Michelle Gransee, Deputy Commissioner, Division of Energy Resources