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Making the most of solar energy Solar energy is a clean, reliable way to meet our growing energy demands. Global warming is already affecting Minnesota's economy and environment, and solar power could be a part of the solution—reducing emissions, pollution, and our dependence on foreign oil. Unlike some other energy sources, solar emits no global warming pollution and doesn't require additional transmission lines. And Minnesota has the potential to reap serious solar rewards. According to the Minnesota Department of Commerce, Minnesota has more annual solar energy potential than Houston and nearly as much as Miami! While solar energy is more economical in the long term than other sources of energy, it can be prohibitively expensive up front. Solar power has received fewer incentives and rebates than wind, nuclear, or fossil fuels. To make it a feasible energy option for homeowners, smart policy solutions need to be in place. “Global warming and the increasing costs of fossil fuels should persuade policymakers of the need to support investments in solar energy. Investments now can pay dividends for decades,” says Fresh Energy's executive director Michael Noble. In Minnesota, residents aren't waiting, and have started making their own investments in solar power. |
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Little Earth gets a little sunnier
This month, the Little Earth community installs its first solar panel. Located in south Minneapolis, Little Earth is the only urban American Indian low-income housing complex in the United States. To commemorate the installation, Honor the Earth, Fresh Energy, Minnesota Green Communities, White Earth Land Recovery Project, Rural Renewable Energy Alliance (RREAL) and Green For All will host a one day renewable energy training on May 22. The training will focus on the importance of renewable energy and benefits of solar energy. A public dedication of the solar panel will follow (see more information below). Little Earth isn't the first Native community to realize the cost-saving potential of solar energy. Through the White Earth Land Recovery Project residents of the White Earth Reservation in northwest Minnesota have installed solar heating panels on several houses. They have reported increased efficiency and cost savings of up to 20 percent. |
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Promoting solutions Valerie Martinez was told as a child that you must do what you’re passionate about. And as an intern at Honor the Earth—an organization working to increase funding and public support for Native communities protecting the earth—she’s doing just that. “The installation of a solar panel at Little Earth will show what we as Native people can do for future generations” she says. Martinez uses the wisdom taught to her at an early age in her work to combat global warming and sees the opportunity for Native people to benefit from the growing green economy. “I want to dedicate my life to educate, motivate, and contribute whatever I can, so that the air, water and food that is consumed by my children is clean and safe to help them grow strong” Martinez says. “My journey is to inform and educate people about the opportunities with renewable energy.” |
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Little Earth solar panel installation and dedication
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