Community Event Highlights New Solar Energy Projects
Last week, National Grid Renewables hosted the “Homegrown Minnesolar” event to celebrate two new solar energy projects in Southern Minnesota. The 50 MW Louise Solar Project in Mower County and the Fillmore County Solar Project in Fillmore County were the focus of the celebration. Community members, landowners, customers, partners, and local officials gathered to recognize the positive impact of these projects on local communities.
Economic and Environmental Benefits
Blake Nixon, President of National Grid Renewables, emphasized the company’s Minnesota roots and commitment to rural economic growth. He highlighted the economic benefits these projects bring, including new investments, tax revenue, jobs, and charitable funding. Xcel Energy has agreed to purchase 80 MW of energy from these projects, supporting its vision of providing 100% carbon-free electricity to its Upper Midwest customers.
Ryan Long, President of Xcel Energy–Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota, praised the projects for contributing to their renewable energy goals. He noted that these solar installations, combined with wind power and carbon-free nuclear energy, will help Xcel Energy retire coal plants and achieve their clean energy vision. The solar projects will also enable new subscriptions to Xcel Energy’s Renewable*Connect program, allowing customers to support renewable energy.
Community Engagement and Charitable Contributions
The event featured a farmer’s market organized by Renewing the Countryside, showcasing local farmers and vendors. Attendees enjoyed products from Squash Blossom Farm, Leafy Legacy Family Farm, Seven Songs Organic Farm, and more. Marlene Petersen, Community Outreach Ambassador at Renewing the Countryside, noted the market’s success in supporting local agribusinesses.
Attendees also toured the Louise Solar project, learning about solar project construction and the use of First Solar Series 6+ Bifacial modules. Berry Construction is handling the construction of both projects.
National Grid Renewables announced a $380,000 pledge to charitable funding through the Fillmore and Louise projects. These contributions will support education funds for the Southland and LeRoy-Ostrander school districts. Over the first 20 years, Fillmore and Louise are expected to generate more than $30 million in direct economic impact, including over $4 million in new tax revenue.
Environmental Impact
The Fillmore and Louise projects will provide significant environmental benefits. According to the EPA’s greenhouse gas equivalencies calculator, these projects will offset 2.4 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions over 20 years. This is equivalent to removing 568,400 cars from the road for one year. Additionally, the projects will save 4.4 billion gallons of water over the same period.
About National Grid Renewables
National Grid Renewables develops, owns, and operates large-scale renewable energy assets across the United States. Their portfolio includes solar, wind, and energy storage projects. The company focuses on farmer-friendly and community-oriented practices, reinvesting in sustainable and clean energy futures. National Grid Renewables supports National Grid’s vision of a clean, fair, and affordable energy future for all.
Source：prnewswire.com
