At OATI, we often say we provide the “brains” of the electric grid. Our software manages the complex movement of electrons across continents, ensuring reliability in an industry defined by constant change. But recently, the future of energy walked through our doors in a very personal way.

We were honored to host representatives from the White Earth Nation, tribal planners, and the innovators at 8th Fire Solar. Their visit wasn’t just a meeting of minds; it was a glimpse into a decentralized, renewable future that is arriving faster than many realize. Winona LaDuke, an influential tribal voice, detailed the visit in this column.

From ‘big is best’ to ‘local is resilient’

For a century, the energy industry believed in the concept “big is best”—massive, centralized coal plants and sprawling transmission lines. However, this model faces many challenges in recent times. With nearly 61% of energy wasted between the point of origin and the point of use, and increasing outages on long-distance lines, the “Scorched Path” of outdated production is becoming a liability.

The White Earth delegation shared a different vision: Local Power.

A leading example of this shift is the Pine Point Elementary School project. This fall, in collaboration with 10 Power, 8th Fire Solar, and Ziegler Energy, the school installed 480kW of solar power. For a 100% electric school serving one of Minnesota’s most vulnerable communities, this isn’t just about “going green”—it’s about economic survival and energy sovereignty.

Energy sovereignty unlocked

As this project comes online in January 2026, it aims to provide 100% of the school’s energy. Combined with battery backup, the school becomes a beacon of resilience, capable of maintaining power even when the broader grid goes down.

This is where OATI comes in. To make “microgrids” like Pine Point work, you need the technology and know-how to design a system that meets your goals today, while preparing for those down the road. Our smart grid and microgrid solutions allow tribal nations to:

  • Improve resilience and reliability for communities and critical infrastructure
  • Reduce energy costs
  • Create economic opportunities with C&I and data center developers
  • Enable the tribal utility model of independence

Looking ahead

At OATI, we are proud to provide the technology that empowers these communities. The “writing on the wall” that the White Earth representatives spoke of is something we see every day in our data centers. The transition to a smart, decentralized grid isn’t just a dream for the future—it is the operational reality of today.

OATI is committed to working alongside tribal nations, developers, and forward-thinking utilities. Together, we are building a grid that is not only smarter but also more equitable for everyone.