Hello everyone! I wanted to share another free opportunity from NACo which should be a fantastic training for any counties dealing with siting energy projects. This energy-related technical assistance cohort comes on the heels of the rural energy peer exchange last November that Grant, Klickitat, and Thurston participated in which was very informative on siting energy projects and data centers. Please find more information from NACo below and attached. If you are interested in applying I would point out the following: · Counties must have at least two (2) active participants: one county elected official and at least one additional county elected official or county staff member. Additional elected officials and county staff are encouraged to participate. Applications should be submitted by an elected county official; however, applications may be submitted by county staff with a letter of support from the county legislature. · Counties do not need to have an active project under review to apply, but should demonstrate interest in engaging meaningfully in policy, planning or community engagement discussions related to wind, solar or BESS development. · Participants will be selected based on application responses that demonstrate a strong interest in addressing or preparing for renewable energy development, especially wind, solar and BESS technologies, at the county level. Applicants that outline goals such as improving the siting and permitting process and strengthening community engagement will receive priority consideration. Please note that only rural counties and counties with large rural areas are eligible ___________________ The NACo Energy Team would like to share another learning opportunity for you and your county: the Rural Energy Academy Technical Assistance Cohort. This is a free 12-week, primarily virtual learning sprint designed to support rural counties navigating wind, solar and/or battery energy storage system (BESS) development. Below are a few quick details: · What participants will receive: structured weekly sessions with subject matter experts, peer learning, individualized technical assistance and materials and templates to support your work. · What participants will develop: one or more implementation-ready deliverables designed for your county’s unique needs such as a draft/revised zoning or siting ordinance, a community engagement plan or a community benefits framework. · Weekly topics include: community engagement, economic benefits, zoning/permitting, balancing farmland preservation with energy development, safety and risk management (additional topics outlined in the information sheet). If you are interested, you can learn more in the attached information sheet and apply here by Jan. 30, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Best,