In the dynamic world of renewable energy, Richard Tallbear Westerman’s journey stands out as a testament to perseverance and vision. Transitioning from a career in interior fabrication, Westerman ventured into the solar industry, laying the groundwork for significant projects that blend innovation with sustainability.
Westerman, who hails from the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate, spent years cultivating relationships and exploring opportunities, leading to the establishment of Tallbear Seville, LLC in Manhattan Beach, California. Initially focusing on small-scale solar projects linked to tribal casinos, his ambitions quickly expanded. By 2013, his company had secured a power purchasing agreement (PPA) with San Diego Gas & Electric Co., a crucial step that eventually led to the development of a 20-megawatt solar farm in Ocotillo Wells, California, completed in 2015.
The $52 million project thrived through strategic partnerships. Regenerate Energy, led by Reyad Fazzani, played a pivotal role as a co-developer, while Duke Energy, through its subsidiary Deriva Energy, and Solar First contributed to the project’s financing and manufacturing. Westerman continues to manage daily operations, bolstered by his energy consulting firm, Red Power.
From Interiors to Solar
Westerman’s previous work in casino interiors provided a unique entry into the solar industry. His company was renowned for its work with major casinos and entities like Disney and Universal Studios. When approached by a casino for solar installations, he recognized the potential synergy with his team’s expertise in electrical work, prompting deeper exploration into solar opportunities. A suggestion from a friend on the Morongo Band of Mission Indians’ tribal council further encouraged this shift.
The Power of Partnerships
Securing the PPA was a turning point. “Once you have a customer that has a 100‑year history of paying their bills and paying for energy, and you have a contract with them, it works out,” Westerman noted. The agreement attracted substantial interest, allowing the project to proceed with confidence.
A significant infrastructure fund from Japan provided initial financing, with Kruger Energy later stepping in as a long-term partner before Duke Energy took over operations. Connectivity to the grid was achieved via the Sunrise Powerlink, enhancing the project’s reach into Arizona.
Challenges and Certification
Westerman’s journey was not without its hurdles. He faced scrutiny from the California Public Utilities Commission concerning his minority business certification. After a rigorous evaluation, he was affirmed as an expert in solar energy, validating his leadership in the industry.
Navigating Federal Policy Shifts
Despite policy shifts favoring fossil fuels, Westerman remains optimistic about solar opportunities, citing the continued availability of investment tax credits. “There’s still plenty of tax credits that can be applied to solar that Native American tribes can access,” he emphasized.
The Role of Collaboration
Westerman’s success underscores the importance of collaboration. He advises against the notion that tribes must navigate the complexities of renewable energy development alone. “Usually the developer, contractor brings that to the table,” he explained, highlighting the importance of expert partnerships in achieving large-scale projects.
Original Story at tribalbusinessnews.com