State Democrats nominate Pine Ridge entrepreneur to PUC

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) – South Dakota Democrats have nominated a Pine Ridge entrepreneur to run for a spot on the state’s Public Utilities Commission.

The nomination of Henry Red Cloud came Saturday during the South Dakota Democratic Party state convention.

Red Cloud is the founder and owner of Lakota Solar Enterprises, a renewable energy company based on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.

Red Cloud’s work on solar energy has earned him several awards. The White House named him a “Champion of Change” in 2014.

Red Cloud says he is “honored” by the nomination. He says he is “eager to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing consumers and utility companies in South Dakota.”

South Dakota Republicans will select their nominee during their state convention in Aberdeen Saturday.