Eye Opener: Photo Essay

Renewable Energy Across the State of Minnesota

"Renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies are key to creating a clean energy future for not only the nation, but the world" (National Renewable Energy Laboratory).

"The United States currently relies heavily on coal, oil, and natural gas for its energy. Fossil fuels are nonrenewable, that is, they draw on finite resources that will eventually dwindle, becoming too expensive or too environmentally damaging to retrieve. In contrast, renewable energy resources—such as wind and solar energy—are constantly replenished and will never run out" (National Renewable Energy Laboratory).

Grand Meadow Wind Farm--Dexter, Minnesota

Wind Turbines Wind Farm:  "The wind farm spans a stretch of farm fields six miles long and four miles wide, and is spread out over roughly 10,000 acres southeast of Interstate 90 three miles north and three miles south of Hwy 16, in Grand Meadow, Clayton, and Dexter Townships in Mower County" (Excel Energy)

Wind Turbine Converter: All energy generated by the wind turbines is set to the converted and sent to the power lines to be transferred to the power plant.

Power Lines: Energy from the converter is sent through these lines to the Power Company.

Personal Wind Turbine--Austin, Minnesota

"Renewable Energy SD is the Upper Midwest’s leading provider of wind turbine consultation, sales and development services. We offer turn-key renewable energy solutions from an exclusive dealer factory network. We are committed to supporting and strengthening individual, local economies as well as green initiatives while increasing the energy independence of the United States" (Renewable Energy SD).

Personal Home Solar Energy Panels--Winona, Minnesota

"We provide ... solar electric, solar hot water, solar hot air, and energy efficient lighting solutions for the residential, commercial, and government sectors. Our services include: Site Surveys, Quoting, Design, Procurement, Installation, Commissioning, Training, and Customer Service. Our goal is to make renewable energy and energy efficiency available and affordable to everyone while providing outstanding professional service, superior attention to detail, solid integrity, proactive safety, quality products, and competitive value" (Winona Renewable Energy LLC)