Wasco and Sherman County Students Earn NewSun Energy Climate and Agriculture Scholarships
Allison Rolfe
The Dalles, Ore., Aug. 20, 2026 — NewSun Energy LLC announced students from Wasco and Sherman counties have been selected as recipients of the company's 4th Annual Climate and Agriculture Scholarship Program.
Allison Rolfe, a graduate of Sherman County High School, received a $2,500 scholarship and plans to attend Eastern Oregon University.
Rolfe's essay examined the far-reaching impacts of climate change on Oregon's rural communities, highlighting the interconnected nature of environmental, economic, and agricultural challenges. She explored how climate-related issues affect communities across the state and emphasized the importance of collaborative solutions.
Michae Wills
Michae Wills, a graduate of South Wasco County High School, received a $500 honorable mention scholarship and plans to attend Mt. Hood Community College.
Wills’ essay reflected on the personal effects of climate change and increasingly severe wildfire seasons in Oregon. She also discussed her commitment to advancing renewable energy solutions and the role clean energy can play in creating a more sustainable future for rural communities
This year, six students received $2,500 scholarships and two students earned $500 honorable mention scholarships from NewSun through a competitive application process that drew applicants from across the region. The scholarships assist students pursuing higher education while encouraging engagement with issues affecting agriculture, climate resilience, conservation, and rural communities.
Since the scholarship program was established in 2023, NewSun Energy LLC has awarded nearly $60,000 in scholarships through its Community Benefits Fund. The program is designed to support students whose academic achievements, leadership potential, and community involvement demonstrate a commitment to addressing important issues facing rural Oregon.
Applications were evaluated by a volunteer panel of 14 essay reviewers, including NewSun Energy team members, climate policy specialists, conservation professionals, nonprofit leaders, elected officials, and other community representatives. Essays were judged on students' understanding of climate and agriculture topics, community engagement, leadership qualities, and future educational goals.
The Climate and Agriculture Scholarship Program is funded through NewSun Energy's Community Benefits Fund, which invests in education, community development, and local initiatives in the areas where the company develops and operates renewable energy projects.
NewSun Energy congratulates Michael, Allison, and all scholarship recipients on their accomplishments and wishes them continued success as they pursue their educational and professional aspirations.
About NewSun Energy
NewSun Energy is a Bend-based renewable energy developer specializing in solar, wind and battery storage. It has developed solar projects in Harney, Lake and Crook counties and has projects planned across Eastern Oregon, with additional renewable energy development in Oregon and Washington.
Project on the Horizon
Currently, NewSun is working toward the construction of the Buckley Solar Facility, a large solar power project in Sherman County capable of producing up to 1,200 megawatts of electricity. It would be approximately 9 miles east of Tygh Valley and 8 miles southwest of Grass Valley.
The project would also include a 1,200-megawatt battery storage system capable of storing enough electricity to provide power for up to four hours.
The proposed site covers about 6,698 acres, or 10.5 square miles, of privately owned farmland in Sherman County. The land is currently zoned for exclusive farm use.
