News of the week

SMMPA hosts international delegation for discussion on energy transition

On Monday, May 6, the Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (SMMPA) hosted 40 energy professionals from Eurasia and Sri Lanka as part of an exchange program managed by the US Department of Commerce. The visitors were keen to learn about SMMPA’s transition from coal-based resources to renewable generation and efficient dispatchable resources. They toured SMMPA’s Owatonna Energy Station and the nearby Lemond Solar Project. Dave Geschwind, SMMPA's Executive Director and CEO, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to discuss the energy transition, noting that many countries represented are in the early planning stages of a similar transition. The visiting delegation included regulators, utility professionals, and renewable energy developers from several countries.

To read SMMPA's media release, click here.

Call for MMUA Board nominations

MMUA has seats on the Board of Directors to be filled at the annual membership meeting in August, and our Nominations and Awards Committee is accepting nominations for these positions.

We want to hear from you! Nominations can be sent via email to our CEO, Karleen Kos. All nominations will be considered, though note we are seeking experienced leaders who are committed to MMUA’s mission of unifying, supporting, and serving as a common voice for hometown utilities. The deadline for submissions is June 30.

PUC approves Dodge County wind project

The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has approved the Dodge County Wind Project, which will generate electricity for Great River Energy's cooperatives. Developed by NextEra Energy Resources, the project will feature 72 turbines mainly in western Dodge County.

A stakeholder group helped guide discussions on challenges, resulting in the approval of a "hybrid route alternative" for transmission lines. This route minimizes impacts on residences, allows flexibility in pole siting, and addresses safety and environmental concerns. The project is expected to create more than 400 construction jobs and bring economic activity to the area. It was included in Great River Energy's integrated resource plan accepted by the Commission in March.

To learn more about the project, click here.

Report: interest rates affect renewables more than natural gas

A recent report found rising interest rates are disproportionately affecting renewable energy projects compared to fossil fuel-based sources, with utility-scale solar experiencing significant impacts.

Wood Mackenzie's analysis reveals that a two percentage point increase in rates could raise renewable energy costs by up to 20 percent, potentially hindering the energy transition and domestic manufacturing efforts in the US. Emerging technologies like low-carbon hydrogen may also face viability challenges. Despite these hurdles, wind and solar remain competitively priced, though the pace of development could slow. Interest rate dynamics may favor Chinese manufacturing over US ventures in the foreseeable future.

To read more, click here.

Funding opportunities

Solar for Schools Grant Program

The Minnesota Department of Commerce Division of Energy Resources requests proposals from qualified schools throughout Minnesota for the Solar for Schools Grant Program (reference number: COMM_SFS05_20240110). The program, created by the State Legislature (Minn. Stat. 216C.375), is designed to provide grants to stimulate the installation of solar energy systems while using the opportunity to integrate renewable energy use into the school’s curriculum. Public schools, K-12 as well as Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, Tribal Contract and Cooperative Districts are eligible for funding based on financial need.

The full application is due Wednesday, June 7, 2024. For more information, click here.

Looking ahead

Minnesota Public Power Walleye Tournament

June 1

Bladow Beach Resort (Ottertail)

Registration deadline: May 17

Time to register is running out for the Minnesota Public Power Walleye Tournament! Last year's tournament raised $3,300 for post-secondary line work programs in Minnesota. We hope you can join and help us have another record-breaking year: the more we fish, the more we give!

"Public power" is inclusive of all Minnesota electric cooperatives, municipal utilities, and industry affiliates and suppliers. All are welcome to participate in this event, whether you have worked in the industry or not. This fun, friendly competition offers cash prizes for top-placing teams and the largest walleye. 

For complete details about the event and to register, please click here.

As always, thank you for your association with MMUA and your commitment to delivering excellent service through locally owned utility assets in your community. Have a great week!

Christian Glanville

Marketing and Member Relations Manager

Direct: 763.746.0727 / Cell: 612.655.0598

Fax: 763.551.0459

cglanville@mmua.org | www.mmua.org

To download a copy of this email, click here.

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