In efforts to make solar energy more accessible for homes and businesses by the year 2015, Minneapolis and St. Paul will receive a $200,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy.
The Twin Cities, one of the 12 metropolitan areas selected to receive funding, will partner with other local organizations to plan and organize projects to further the federal government's Solar America Initiative. The initiative's total investment is estimated at $12.1 million.
Projects already planned for Minneapolis include a 600-kilowatt photovoltaic system and 20-30 solar projects using an innovative leasing model. Both projects are partially funded through Xcel Energy's Renewable Development fund. Other partners supporting the initiative include Minnesota Renewable Energy Society and Neighborhood Energy Connection.
