POWER UNITED
Our Story
Power United was formed out of a shared vision to create tangible, community-driven solutions to energy access and sustainability challenges in grid-compromised and climate-vulnerable regions. Chris, Todd, and Sebastian each brought unique yet complementary expertise—construction and cultural integration, education and curriculum development, and renewable energy system deployment. Their collective experiences in the Solomon Islands, the Pacific, and Latin America underscored the urgent need for reliable, sustainable, and scalable energy solutions tailored to the specific needs of rural communities.
Recognizing that access to energy is a catalyst for economic opportunity, education, and climate resilience, they launched Power United to bridge the gap between technological advancements and on-the-ground implementation. The organization was founded on the principles of hands-on engagement, local empowerment, and sustainability—ensuring that the systems implemented not only provide power but also create lasting economic and social benefits. Through Power United, they continue to expand their work, scaling successful pilot projects into broader initiatives that support and uplift underserved communities.
The trio’s combined expertise and shared vision has since culminated into a pilot project dubbed "Sola Powa Haus #1". The now completed 2021-22 effort was intended to and now serves as an assessment tool through which we can accurately assess viability for solar energy system and solar thermal food dehydration system inclusion at additional Rural Training Centers in the Solomon Islands. The base-camp project not only provides sustainable energy for those targeted, it demonstrates how both solar-centric tools can enhance climate resilience and mitigate the challenges of being grid-compromised. The project has been a resounding success, proving not only sharable banked solar power but also a viable income generator for the school community. By replacing dependency on unreliable and costly energy sources, the project has empowered the community to realize and overcome economic and infrastructural vulnerabilities. Word has spread quickly and is continually sparking local interest and demand calling for similar solutions in neighboring areas.
Armed with three years of data, invaluable feedback, and tangible success, we are now expanding our efforts to bring these transformative technologies to more RTC communities. By fostering energy independence, improving climate change resilience, and addressing the vulnerabilities of grid-compromised regions, we aim to create lasting and meaningful change for underpowered populations.
Christopher Guttenberg - Executive Director
Chris is a licensed Green Building contractor and Industrial Technology educator with 25 years of experience. His life's work has emphasized the development of innovative, environmentally conscious building practices and sharing know-how through hands-on industrial technology training programs.
As a returned U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer, Chris played a key role in early Rural Training Center curriculum material and campus building development in the Solomon Islands, an experience which reinforced why he remains dedicated to achieving vulnerable community empowerment through education and infrastructure.
Guttenberg holds education and industrial design bachelor of science diplomas and a masters of science & technology degree. His professional education experience includes working as an Instructor of Industrial Technology at the University of Montana Western.
Chris leads as Executive Director at Power United. He is committed to advancing solar power education and finding ways for off-grid service integration to thrive in climate change-compromised South Pacific Island nations.
Sebastian Brundage - Assistant Director
Sebastian Brundage is a dedicated renewable energy professional with over a decade of experience in the solar industry. He started his career working on off grid solar and wind systems for rural electrification in Mexico, Nicaragua and the Marshall Islands. Over the years, Sebastian transitioned to building utility Solar & Energy Storage projects for EPCS (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) companies throughout the US.
Sebastian is currently based in White Salmon, Washington where he enjoys spending his free time recreating outdoors. At the Power United Foundation, Sebastian draws on his deep industry knowledge to lead the pre-construction and construction phases of projects. His leadership is defined by a dedication to fostering collaboration across the organization, driving PUF toward its ambitious mission of implementing solar projects that empower communities.
Christina Mari - VATU Business & Agriculture Specialist
Christina sits on our Board of Directors and works full time at Vatu Rural Training Center as the Agriculture & Business Instructor. She plays a critical role guiding students through the recharge income generation accounting system and food dehydration aspects of our recent projects at Vatu.
Todd LaFrenz - Secretary/Treasurer
Todd LaFrenz is an innovative educator and parent coach based in Bend, Oregon. With 25 years of experience in education, LaFrenz has established himself as a problem solver and expert listener. He is passionate about facilitating hands-on learning experiences and tailoring programs to meet various learning styles.
LaFrenz is known for his environmental mindset and caring nature. Todd designs the educational aspects of Association of Vocational and Rural Training Center's "Powa Haus" curriculum. This project provides students basic solar science theory coursework and an advance set campus enhancement projects to be undertaken by advanced students. Todd's project materials treat Power United's solar systems as living labs for enhanced learning. Todd also takes charge of customizing potential income generation projects out from each RTC's solar power system.
Married with two children, Todd enjoys all outdoor activities, taking advantage of the natural beauty surrounding Bend. His interests extend beyond local education, as he is involved in bringing solar energy to rural training centers in the Solomon Islands. LaFrenz has personally traveled to a Rural Training Center site in the Solomon Islands, demonstrating his commitment to global education and sustainable development.
James Manengela - Board Member
Principal of the VATU Rural Training Center and professional consultant at SIARTC, James Manengela is a vital partner of Power United and a key local contact in the Solomon Islands. He played a pivotal role in hosting, coordinating and executing Power United’s first collaborative solar and food dehydration project in the Solomons. James proudly serves as, "eyes on the ground" as we assess the system's day to day performance!
As a local project champion, and father of 6, James remains instrumental in sharing the successes of the VATU solar initiative, highlighting its educational, economic, and lifestyle benefits within his community. His dedication continues to inspire and drive support for other training center projects across the country and region.
Jackie LaFrenz - Assistant Director
Jackie LaFrenz is a dedicated educator and curriculum designer based in Bend, Oregon. With a passion for innovative and creative learning, she has spent her career crafting educational experiences that foster environmental awareness and STEM literacy. Currently, Jackie teaches science at a proficiency-based school, where she emphasizes student-centered learning and skill mastery.
Her educational journey began with teaching in a one-room, mixed-age schoolhouse outside Yellowstone, showcasing her adaptability and commitment to diverse learning environments. Jackie co-founded Forge, a private school in Bend, focusing on self-discovery, nature, and culture, reflecting her belief in holistic education.
One of Jackie's most impactful experiences was visiting a rural training center in the Solomon Islands. This exposure deepened her understanding of alternative education models and the importance of vocational training in empowering local communities. Her commitment to environmental stewardship and innovative educational practices makes her a valuable asset in shaping the next generation of thinkers and leaders.
Jackie's approach to education is characterized by creativity, environmental consciousness, and a focus on STEM education. Her work continues to inspire students and educators alike, promoting a more inclusive and sustainable approach to learning.