September 1, 2025 BREAKS
Natalie Johansen Powder River Staff
Board Members and Staff of Powder River journeyed to Laramie to their July Board Meeting at high altitude. While our office, our work, and our history is rooted in the Powder River Basin, we have a substantial number of members in the southeastern side of the state.
The gathering provided a perfect opportunity to strengthen relationships with that community and witness firsthand the renewable energy momentum building in Laramie done by our affiliate the Alliance for Renewable Energy (ARE). The visit was a great chance to catch up with ARE members who’ve been a solid Powder River affiliate since 2018. ARE started when local members teamed up with organizers Monika Leininger and later Claire Deuter to begin their important work with the City of Laramie on climate action initiatives.
Since then, ARE has built an impressive track record of supporting renewable energy projects throughout southeastern Wyoming, partnering with local government on grant applications, and consistently educating residents about clean energy opportunities through various outreach efforts and community events. While in Laramie, board members engaged in conversations with ARE members about current initiatives and how they align with our broader organizational goals.