Commission members take on Community Energy Ambassador training

August 2025

Members of Rochester’s Sustainability and Resiliency Commission are participating in the Community Energy Ambassador program, a statewide effort to give residents the skills and tools needed to support local clean energy projects. Several members have already completed their training and have become CERTified Ambassadors, while others are working on their final outreach projects.

Two attendees talking in the lobby; seen through a doorway
Group photo featuring Keely Rau and Sara Padich
Attendees conversing in the lobby

What they accomplished together

Commissioners chose to complete the program as a group, using the experience to build shared understanding across key energy topics such as home energy efficiency, renewables, and electric vehicles in Greater Minnesota. The training prepares participants to support community-led energy efforts and to connect residents to available resources.
 

Results of their efforts

Terri, one of nine Sustainability and Resiliency Commission members, talking with Jennifer Lindahl, Southeast CERT Regional Coordinator Commission members teamed up to table at community events like Rochester Public Utilities Arbor Day Celebration and EarthFest, where they engaged with a range of community members. Outreach included sharing information about upcoming Electrify Everything workshops, educating Rochester school students, and highlighting the work of the Sustainability and Resiliency Commission. Additional outreach is planned throughout the year.

Terri, one of nine Sustainability and Resiliency Commission members, shared “I learned a great deal in the Community Energy Ambassador training process and follow up events. I think our project helped build camaraderie within our Commission and stimulated even greater engagement with our community members.”

By working through the Community Energy Ambassadors program together, commission members are modeling local leadership and continuing to build relationships across the community — supporting Rochester’s clean energy goals through trusted, resident-led engagement.

Ready to start your cohort?

Our Community Energy Ambassador cohorts are another way you can support community clean energy projects. Cohorts begin with a group like the city commissioners coming together and learning about clean energy, or a group of community members coming together to make a difference in their community.

Start by gathering your group and discussing the Community Energy Ambassadors Cohort Plan [PDF], which outlines the timeline and structure. The worksheet includes questions to discuss together as well as ideas for meeting topics and schedules. Once you have a plan, follow our Community Energy Ambassador Training Guide to guide your cohort.

Feel free to reach out with any questions or to discuss your cohort ideas: [email protected]

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