Debra Owen will serve as the new Executive Director for the South Dakota Renewable Energy Association.

Owen will provide leadership in the area of public policy and advocacy on the local, state and federal levels. Her background includes more than 27 years in business and government leadership positions, including public policy, advocacy, strategy, planning and implementation.

“We are so pleased to welcome Debra to South Dakota Renewables Association,” said Board Chair Gary Fish. “Her knowledge, experiences and deep policy expertise will make her an important part of our association and its value to our members. With her leadership, the association will continue to be a strong voice for renewable energy.”

Owen most recently was a lobbyist for the South Dakota Chamber of Commerce and is Senior Advisor for the LS2 Group, Des Moines, Iowa. Owen also served as the Vice President of Government Relations for the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce. She also served as senior staff attorney and lead agency lobbyist for the state’s Bureau of Human Resources. Owen was the chief of City Council operations and the city clerk for the city of Sioux Falls.