Renewable EnergyNearly 90 percent of the electricity we use in Minnesota comes from coal, natural gas, oil and nuclear power: nonrenewable energy sources that pose serious environmental risks. Burning fossil fuels such as coal, for example, releases nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, and mercury. This can create acid rain that makes our lakes unsafe for fishing and swimming, as well as lingering air pollutants that cause breathing difficulties and contribute to the looming disastrous consequences of climate change.
In addition to pollution issues, our energy consumption makes us dependent on distant and unstable regions around the globe as we compete for ever-dwindling energy sources. By using new, renewable sources of energy such as wind, solar, geothermal, hydropower, biomass and waste-to-energy, we not only stave off pollution but we strengthen our own regional economy. Minnesota's tremendous potential for wind power and surprisingly good solar potential make it all the more attractive to support local economic development by choosing local, sustainable sources. The City of Minneapolis is a national leader around sustainability and strives to set a good example, urging the state and federal government, industry and residents to do their part. The City seeks clean energy sources for City operations and facilitates implementation of renewable energy solutions within the community as a whole, and has already installed solar panels on three of its buildings. Further, in 2008, the City of Minneapolis plans to build the largest solar array system in the Upper Midwest. While solar panels, wind turbines and biofuels can command attention, the efficient use of energy -- together with new renewable sources -- promises great returns in the near and long-term. The City also works to reduce overall energy use by eliminating unnecessary usage and developing energy-efficient facilities. See related indicators under Climate Change and Air Quality. Take ActionReports |
