After much anticipation, Xcel Energy submitted its petition for approval (PDF) of the company’s proposed community solar gardens program on September 30th. The program would give utility customers a new way to engage in solar generation without having to invest onsite. A solar garden is a “facility that generates electricity by means of a ground-mounted
community solar garden
Governor Dayton Signs Bill Creating Solar Energy Standard
By Thomas Braun on
Posted in Community Solar, Solar
Yesterday, Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton signed the Omnibus Energy Bill into law. After months of negotiations, state legislators came to an agreement that brings Minnesota to the forefront of solar power following the creation of a solar energy standard, community solar garden program, and a unique value of solar tariff. Key provisions of the new…
Community Solar Projects Coming to Minnesota
By Thomas Braun on
Posted in Community Solar, Solar
At a time when the Minnesota Legislature is considering a proposal that would create a solar electricity standard, community solar projects are gaining popularity. Six weeks from now, Wright-Hennepin Cooperative Electric Association will begin construction on Minnesota’s first community solar program, with the goal of having the project completed by Memorial Day.
A community …
New Community Solar Guide Available
By Sarah Johnson Phillips on
Posted in Community Solar, Solar
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar American Communities program released a community solar guide late last week. The guide presents detailed information about three project models: utility-sponsored projects, special purpose projects formed for producing community solar power and non-profit sponsored projects.
The guide outlines the legal and financial implications of each model, provides practical tools…