The Rural Minnesota Energy Board promotes renewable energy in southwestern Minnesota and drives progress and prosperity for local community members. 

As Renewable Energy World reported, the board represents the interests of 18 rural Minnesota counties and advocates for clean energy at the state legislature and public utilities proceedings. It also drafts energy-related laws, works with project developers, and educates the public about clean energy initiatives. 

This part of Minnesota is experiencing tremendous growth in the solar and wind energy industries. Wind turbines now comprise approximately 22% of Minnesota’s energy generation capacity. 

One of the RMEB’s most significant accomplishments is the wind production tax, which charges wind farms a fee per megawatt-hour of energy generation. This money goes back to local governments to repair and build infrastructure without raising taxes for residents. 

This incoming money has helped curb public opposition to clean energy projects while supporting local communities. 

“It’s all economic development here,” said Jason Walker, community development director for the Southwest Regional Development Commission. 

This example of local government collaboration offers hope and inspiration that other communities can replicate. In Minnesota, this board is overcoming the common controversies and misinformation that have stunted clean energy expansions in other rural regions. 

The board has been lobbying for state policies supporting clean energy transitions. It has addressed the state’s permitting processes and has been involved in conversations about regional grid policies. 

By taking an economic stance that appeals to rural Minnesota residents, the board circumvents pushback and avoids controversies. It helps everyone feel more comfortable with clean energy and dispels myths in favor of evidence that it saves families money while supporting a healthy environment. 

With a better understanding of how wind and solar farms work and their community benefits, communities can provide safer places for people to live. Meanwhile, a more informed public can advocate for tax revenue for their local governments and get new energy developments launched with fewer delays.

TCD Picks » Upway Spotlight

💡Upway makes it easy to find discounts of up to 60% on premium e-bike brands

These city bikes are perfect for daily rides

Starting at $599

Tackle any climb with these rugged mountain bikes

Starting at $849

Go farther and faster with this road collection

Starting at $1,119

These adorable bikes fold up for convenient storage

Starting at $749

Snag limited-time price drops on these top models

Starting at $849

“This is a great example of how collaboration at the local level can drive meaningful progress in clean energy development,” one social media user commented on the news.

“Congratulations, Minnesota,” someone else wrote. 

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don’t miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.

Cool Picks

How the Expedia of solar panels helps homeowners save money and avoid a common trap: ‘Giving you confidence in the systems’

This startup is revolutionizing home backup power with an automatic, effortless system: ‘We’re the Goldilocks’

This startup could save you thousands with the first ‘intelligent’ hot water heater of its kind: ‘You can get up to 500% efficiency’

This simple bag lets you earn rewards by recycling your old stuff — here’s how it works and where to get one