UPDATE: Olmsted County has just announced a significant boost in sustainability efforts with the confirmation of $381,000 in state grants to install solar panels on eight public buildings. This initiative is expected to reduce energy costs and promote renewable energy in the region.
County Director of Facilities and Building Operations, Mat Miller, described the funding as “essentially a free solar array for each of these sites,” which will help cover part of the total project cost of $544,000. The county aims to secure federal tax credits to fund the remaining expenses, highlighting the urgent push towards sustainable energy solutions.
These state grants are part of a larger $14.5 million initiative by the Minnesota Department of Commerce to support local governments and Tribal Nations in implementing solar energy systems on public properties. The projects will enable installations capable of generating up to 120% of a building’s annual energy consumption, significantly benefiting the community.
The solar installations will take place at the following locations:
– Public Works Service Center, 1188 50th St. SE
– New exhibition center at Graham Park, 1403 Third Ave. SE
– Caretaker house and main office at Chester Woods Park, 8378 Highway 14 Southeast, Eyota
– Caretaker house and nature center at Oxbow Park, 5731 County Road 105 NW, Byron
While the county had budgeted for some projects, the Graham Park installation was the only one planned for next year. Thanks to the grants, all eight projects are slated for completion by 2026.
However, Travis Gransee, County Administrator, emphasized the need for the county to initially cover the project costs before receiving state and federal reimbursements in 2026 and 2027. The state funds are expected to be released within 30 days of each project’s completion, whereas the federal funds may take longer.
The county is also exploring additional potential sites for solar installations. Miller noted that while other locations are under consideration, the rigorous application process for these eight projects has been substantial, with deadlines extended from November 14 to December 1.
Concerns regarding other buildings have been raised, particularly about roof conditions, as the state grants do not cover roofing improvements. “The projects we picked were the low-hanging fruit that had good roofs or where we could use ground mounds,” Miller stated, emphasizing the strategic selection of sites for optimal solar energy generation.
As Olmsted County moves forward with this ambitious solar initiative, the community can expect a notable shift towards greener energy practices and a significant reduction in energy costs. Stay tuned for updates on the progress of these installations and their impact on the region’s sustainability goals.
