Chief Henry Red Cloud Named 2025 Dr. Espanola Jackson Energy Justice Award Recipient

Vote Solar is proud to announce Chief Henry Red Cloud, Executive Director of Red Cloud Renewable, as the recipient of the 2025 Dr. Espanola Jackson Energy Justice Award.

The Dr. Espanola Jackson Energy Justice Award honors the legacy of Dr. Espanola Jackson — a pioneer in clean energy and social and environmental justice — by recognizing Black, Indigenous, and other leaders of color advancing community-centered clean energy solutions at the local and state level.

Chief Red Cloud is a respected Lakota leader and a fifth-generation direct descendant of Oglala leader Chief Red Cloud. Since founding Red Cloud Renewable in 2016, he has helped train more than 1,100 Indigenous students in solar installation, weatherization, and sustainable building practices. Under his leadership, the organization has installed solar heating systems in over 1,200 homes on reservations, helping families reduce energy burdens while staying safe through South Dakota’s extreme winters. 

Chief Red Cloud’s work is deeply rooted in community, healing, and balance. In addition to expanding clean energy access, he is committed to workforce development — including programs specifically supporting Indigenous women — to ensure Native communities can lead their own clean energy futures.

Vote Solar is honored to recognize Chief Henry Red Cloud and celebrate the powerful, people-centered clean energy leadership he brings to Indigenous communities across the country.