Minnesota stands out as a leader in the energy transition, uniquely positioned at the forefront of renewable adoption in the Midwest. Through bipartisan legislation and innovative incentive programs, the state has become a trailblazer in advancing renewable energy technologies and setting a regional example for clean energy initiatives.
In this episode of the Rise Up Podcast, Nick talks to Logan O'Grady, executive director of MnSEIA, about the past and future of solar in Minnesota as well as the upcoming Gateway to Solar conference on October 8-9, 2024.
Get Connected:
Rise Up Podcast: https://www.riseupmidwest.org
The MREA: https://www.midwestrenew.org
Email: Info@midwestrenew.org
0:42 Logan O'Grady introduction
1:27 MnSEIA overview
4:29 Minnesota solar market
9:24 Minnesota solar policy and bipartisanship
12:30 Lessons learned and the current solar market
16:28 Changes to utility introductory rates
20:58 The future of energy storage in Minnesota
26:23 Inspiration for storage incentive program
28:09 Energy balance in Minnesota
31:38 Gateway to Solar conference
ABOUT OUR GUEST: LOGAN O'GRADY
Logan O'Grady is the Executive Director of the Minnesota Solar Energy Industries Association. He is authorized to practice law in Minnesota and is a registered lobbyist for MnSEIA.
Entering his fourth year at the helm of MnSEIA, Logan has led the organization through a period of substantial growth. Now representing over 170 member organizations, MnSEIA is the largest member-driven clean energy advocacy group in Minnesota. The biggest and most diverse member force since its founding in 2009 has helped MnSEIA pass historic legislative commitments to the solar + storage industry, including over $150 million in public investments into solar + storage programming. Logan navigated the industry through a revamp of the state’s nation-leading Community Solar Garden program, the launch of Minnesota's Solar for Schools and Solar on Public Buildings programs, passed the state's new Distributed Solar Energy Standard, and has been an outspoken voice on the importance of Distributed Energy Resources in Minnesota's energy portfolio.
Previously, Logan worked at Larkin Hoffman where he served as an attorney on the firm’s government relations team, representing solar companies at the state Capitol and in front of the Public Utilities Commission. He also served as the Director of Policy and Public Affairs at Clean Energy Economy Minnesota (CEEM) and as the Committee Administrator for the Minnesota Senate’s powerful capital investment committee.
Logan holds a Law Degree from Mitchell Hamline School of Law and a Master’s Degree from the Hult International Business School in London.
With so many solar products out on the market today, it can be difficult to choose which one works best for your home or business. Boasting over 20 years of solar experience in the US, Fronius has become a leader in the solar industry, providing quality products and reliable customer service.
In this continuation of season 5, Nick Hylla sits down with Chris Connell, head of solutions management at Fronius USA, to talk about the newest Fronius inverter and current roadshow across the United States.
Definitions:
Inverter/Hybrid Inverter – A piece of equipment that converts the current produced by a photovoltaic solar panel into a usable current that feeds into an electrical grid or off-grid electrical network. A hybrid inverter goes one step further and stores solar energy in a battery for later use.
UL 1741-SB certified – A product that meets the safety and performance requirements for grid support functions, and is compatible with the electric utility grid.
Global Maximum Power Point – A feature of inverters that helps solar arrays produce the most power by finding the optimal operating point.
Renewable Meter Adaptor – A device that simplifies the process of connecting a solar system to a home's electrical panel.
Get Connected:
Rise Up Podcast: https://www.riseupmidwest.org
The MREA: https://www.midwestrenew.org
Email: Info@midwestrenew.org
00:54 Chris Connell Introduction
1:37 Fronius Mission and History
2:39 The Fronius Gen 24 Inverter
6:37 Fronius Roadshow
8:19 Repair Center
ABOUT OUR GUEST: CHRIS CONNELL
Chris Connell joined Fronius USA In 2012 as an Application Engineer for the Solar Energy Business unit. Since then, Chris has held multiple positions, including Team Leader of the Technical Support Department, Technical Sales Advisor, National Technical Sales Advisor, and currently is the Head of Solutions Management.
As a former Aviation Technician in the US Navy and with his background in the technical support team, he brings an extensive technical knowledge.
Did you know you don't have to be a pro cyclist to keep up with the racers competing in the Tour de France? E-bikes are one of the best environmentally conscious transportation options that keep you fit while having fun. These electric bikes significantly reduce carbon emissions, decrease air and noise pollution, and use less energy and resources for production and maintenance compared to traditional vehicles. Plus, they offer an efficient, cost-effective alternative to driving, making them a smart choice for both your health and the planet.
In this final episode of season five, hear from Matthew Penniman, Communications and Advocacy Director at the League of Michigan Bicyclists, as he discusses the importance of e-bikes, technology advancements, costs, and the adoption of a new transportation system.
Get Connected:
Rise Up Podcast: https://www.riseupmidwest.org
The Energy Fair: https://www.theenergyfair.org
The MREA: https://www.midwestrenew.org
Email: Info@midwestrenew.org
0:00 Matt Penniman Introduction
1:19 League of Michigan Bicyclists
3:44 Why are bicycles important?
4:47 The League's priorities
6:35 Tensions between road users
8:31 Technology advancements in mobility
9:58 Consumer considerations
13:50 Changes in electric bikes
15:09 Battery range estimations
18:02 Cost range
18:47 Form factors
21:37 Adapting the transportation system
23:15 Communities leading the way on micro mobility
24:00 Future vision for micro mobility and bicycles
25:46 Additional resources and closing thoughts
ABOUT OUR GUEST: MATTHEW PENNIMAN
A passionate cyclist and communication strategist, Matthew Penniman assumed the role of Communications and Advocacy Director at the League of Michigan Bicyclists in 2018. With a diverse skill set encompassing project planning, organizational psychology, strategic engagement, and more, Matthew is dedicated to advancing ethical messaging within the nonprofit sector and community development initiatives.
Penniman's advocacy extends to promoting riding safety and illustrating the broader community benefits of increased bicycle usage. As a pivotal member of the League of Michigan Bicyclists, he champions the importance of bicycling in creating healthier, more connected communities and advocating for bicycle-friendly policies at the State Capitol in Lansing.
Founded in 1981, the League of Michigan Bicyclists is a nonprofit organization committed to advocating for bicycle-friendly policies, offering financial aid to like-minded individuals and groups, and developing educational materials for cyclists and various stakeholders. Through annual cycling tours, statewide event calendars, and a clear mission to improve lives through bicycling, the League of Michigan Bicyclists envisions a future where bicycling enhances the well-being of all community members, promotes sustainable transportation options, and fosters inclusive and accessible streets and trails for everyone.
Minnesota's solar accessibility has skyrocketed since the passing of the Minnesota Solar Energy Jobs Act in 2013, creating clean energy opportunities for communities across the state. One such opportunity, community solar gardens, have exploded in the past ten years, adding up to 900 megawatts of solar arrays for community benefit.
Learn more about community solar gardens in this episode of the Rise Up Podcast featuring Peter Lindstrom, CERTs manager of public sector & community engagement at the University of Minnesota’s Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships and Extension.
Get Connected:
Rise Up Podcast: https://www.riseupmidwest.org
The Energy Fair: https://www.theenergyfair.org
The MREA: https://www.midwestrenew.org
Email: Info@midwestrenew.org
0:00 Peter Lindstrom Introduction
1:47 MREA Training endorsement
3:07 Clean Energy Resource Teams (CERTs)
6:06 Metropolitan Mayors Caucus
10:13 Changes in Minnesota energy markets
13:55 Community solar subscribers
18:33 Solar garden enabling legislation
23:04 Energy storage and solar gardens
24:03 Solar on Schools program
30:03 What's still needed/magic wand solutions
34:26 Challenges and opportunities in new funding
ABOUT OUR GUEST: PETER LINDSTROM
Peter Lindstrom is the Manager of Public Sector & Community Engagement at the Clean Energy Resource Teams (CERTs) within the University of Minnesota’s Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships and Extension. With a focus on outreach and education, he leads efforts to engage local units of government, including cities, counties, townships, and school districts, in exploring approaches for financing energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements.
Peter brings a wealth of experience to his role, having previously served as the mayor of Falcon Heights, MN for 10 years and represented District 10 on the Metropolitan Council. Additionally, his career includes significant leadership positions such as Assistant Director of the Center for Science, Technology & Public Policy at the University of Minnesota Humphrey School, Executive Director of SciMathMN, and Vice President of Public Affairs at the Minnesota High Tech Association.
Renewable energy technology has come a long way over the years. One such advancement — cold climate heat pumps — are no different and can offer homeowners an efficient and economical way to heat and cool their home while reducing carbon emissions.
Learn everything you need to know about heat pumps including how they work, different configurations, available incentives, and barriers to adoption in this week's episode of the Rise Up Podcast featuring Justin Margolies, Senior Product Developer at Slipstream.
Get Connected:
Rise Up Podcast: https://www.riseupmidwest.org
The Energy Fair: https://www.theenergyfair.org
The MREA: https://www.midwestrenew.org
Email: Info@midwestrenew.org
0:00 Justin Margolies Introduction
1:36 Slipstream and Justin's work
2:56 How does a heat pump work?
3:58 Cold climate heat pump advancements
4:37 Measuring efficiency
7:34 Defrost cycle process
8:57 Heat pump configurations
11:06 Benefits of heat pumps
14:08 Barriers to adoption
17:43 Heat pump incentives
20:15 Customer considerations
22:52 Other heat pump styles
26:06 Beneficial electrification
28:11 Closing thoughts
ABOUT OUR GUEST: JUSTIN MARGOLIES
As the Senior Product Developer at Slipstream, Justin specializes in conducting research on emerging technologies and developing programs and solutions for residential heat pumps. His primary focus is on advancing the organization's mission by collaborating with utilities, local and state governments, regulatory bodies, and communities to facilitate sustainable market transformation. Justin is deeply committed to bridging the gap between research outcomes and widespread impact in the realm of clean energy transition. His goal is to drive responsible market growth and enhance the adoption of heat pump technology for both space and water heating applications.
Justin leverages his extensive experience in the clean energy sector to drive innovation in beneficial electrification research and solution development. He holds a Master of Arts in Agricultural and Applied Economics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, complemented by a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from Macalester College.
Ever wondered how solar panels work? Or how the solar industry has grown over the years? Or how to ensure a quality solar installation? Get answers to all these questions and more in this episode of the Rise Up Podcast as Nick Hylla interviews Kris Schmid, founder and owner of Legacy Solar, LLC and MREA instructor.
Get Connected:
Rise Up Podcast: https://www.riseupmidwest.org
The Energy Fair: https://www.theenergyfair.org
The MREA: https://www.midwestrenew.org
Email: Info@midwestrenew.org
0:00 Kris Schmid Introduction
1:38 The Energy Fair and starting in solar
3:07 How does solar work?
4:54 Changes in the solar market
8:46 Critical design considerations
10:46 Indicators of a quality installation
13:30 Customer solar considerations
15:39 Incentive paperwork, site assessments, and service upgrades
19:40 Batteries and solar technology advancements
25:42 Solar workforce
29:21 NABCEP certification
32:56 Closing thoughts
ABOUT OUR GUEST: KRIS SCHMID
Kris Schmid is the founder and owner of Legacy Solar, LLC, a solar energy company that has been designing and installing solar electric and solar thermal systems in northwestern Wisconsin since 2002. With a background in electrical engineering and software design he now shares his expertise by instructing PV classes for the MREA, including the Solar Training Academy, and is a NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional and a Licensed Master Electrician.
Illinois stands out as a leader in solar development across the United States. Essential to this progress are various solar training programs, notably those run by the Chicago Urban League, which play a crucial role in meeting the workforce demands necessary for the sector's advancement.
In this episode of the Rise Up Podcast, Andrew Wells, Vice President of Workforce Development for the Chicago Urban League, discusses the opportunities and challenges of solar workforce development in Chicago. Get Connected:
Rise Up Podcast: https://www.riseupmidwest.org
The Energy Fair: https://www.theenergyfair.org
The MREA: https://www.midwestrenew.org
Email: Info@midwestrenew.org
00:00 Andrew Wells Introduction
1:47 The LUV Institute
2:21 Changes in the City of Chicago
4:14 Chicago Urban League's work
7:21 Workforce Development
8:37 Solar job placement challenges
16:12 Illinois Green Bank and Solar for All
19:55 Solar Project Management
25:55 Instructor capacity
29:04 What more is needed
32:19 Closing thoughts
ABOUT OUR GUEST: ANDREW WELLS
A Chicago native, Andrew is a community advocate and a champion of building more equitable social systems. He is on the Board of Directors for the Love, Unity & Values (LUV) Institute, a member of the Guiding Team for the City of Chicago Digital Equity Plan, and, since 2013, has been the Vice President of Workforce Development for the Chicago Urban League, a nonprofit organization that provides a range of services, including job training, education, and housing assistance.
Part of his work with the Chicago Urban League has been starting a solar job training program to expose the new field of renewable energy to the Chicago public. He also led a project for the Urban League to install solar panels onto their building, along with a solar carport in the Urban League's parking lot, making it the largest solar installation project in the city.
So you want to finance a home electrification project but don't know where to start? Well, you're in luck! In this episode of the Rise Up Podcast, Nick Hylla talks to Nicole Burford, VP of Market Development and Sustainability at Clean Energy Credit Union, about what consumers should know before taking out a clean energy loan, how to determine the best financing, and the impact of where you do your banking.
Did you know MREA Members are eligible to join the Clean Energy Credit Union and secure a loan for a clean energy product or service? Now you do!
Learn more at: www.midwestrenew.org/cecu/
Join as an MREA Member at: www.midwestrenew.org/membership/
Get Connected:
Rise Up Podcast: https://www.riseupmidwest.org
The Energy Fair: https://www.theenergyfair.org
The MREA: https://www.midwestrenew.org
Email: Info@midwestrenew.org
00:00 Nicole Burford Introduction
01:18 About Clean Energy Credit Union
04:11 What makes CECU unique
06:06 Changes in lending
9:18 Working with Inclusive
10:39 Considerations before taking on a loan
15:10 What else should a consumer know?
17:33 How to determine the best financing
20:11 Clean Energy for All loan program
24:39 Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund
28:35 Impact of where you do your banking
ABOUT OUR GUEST: NICOLE BURFORD
Nicole is the Senior Director of Marketing and Sustainability at Clean Energy Credit Union. Nicole has over 10 years of marketing experience spread across a variety of industries. At Clean Energy Credit Union, Nicole oversees and leads the development of company-wide sustainability and marketing practices. Nicole implements programs to increase the awareness of the credit union’s mission, while also fostering relations with the communities it serves.
After studying Advertising and Communications at Iowa State University, Nicole was one of 30 students nationwide accepted to Gannet’s Talent Development Program where she began her career as a Digital Strategist at Register Media. When she relocated to Colorado, she worked at a digital agency where she had the opportunity to help clients with their digital marketing efforts.
In her current position, Nicole collaborates with external partners of the Clean Energy Credit Union to enhance member experience. Nicole is passionate about the environment and fighting climate change. This passion drew her to Clean Energy Credit Union’s mission. She is involved in a variety of environmental organizations and is happy to be working for a not-for-profit business that is helping to combat climate change and create a more sustainable future.
In today's world, electrifying your home and becoming more energy efficient has never been easier. With various funding opportunities and programs available, the incentives to upgrade your energy systems are too big to be ignored.
Join Kevin Kane in this week's episode of the Rise Up Podcast that focuses on energy efficiency successes and challenges, available funding for homeowners, barriers to electrification, and the steps you can take to start your own energy efficiency journey.
Get Connected:
Rise Up Podcast: https://www.riseupmidwest.org
The Energy Fair: https://www.theenergyfair.org
The MREA: https://www.midwestrenew.org
Email: Info@midwestrenew.org
00:00 Kevin Kane Introduction
02:02 Green Homeowners United Background
05:23 Services offered by GHU
06:41 Successes and challenges in energy efficiency
08:58 Inflation Reduction Act and additional funding
13:03 Barriers to electrification
17:48 Comparing opportunities now and in the past
21:06 Largest needs to meet goals
24:53 Assessment and weatherization process
28:09 Planning for the future and final thoughts
ABOUT OUR GUEST: KEVIN KANE Kevin is the Chief Economist and co-founder of Green Homeowners United, a residential energy efficiency firm based in West Allis, WI that works to fight climate change at home by leveraging modern technologies to upgrade buildings into more efficient structures. He works with lenders, realtors and homeowners to help people navigate and understand the benefits of green homes, and green mortgages specifically.
Substantial federal funding to spur America’s transition to a clean energy economy is a result of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) from the Biden Administration. Local and state governments now have the opportunity to incentivize homeowners to make environmentally-conscious decisions when working on their homes.
Kane is a BPI-certified energy assessor and has a Masters in Applied Economics from Marquette University, which he combines with over a decade of experience as a community organizer and policy advocate, to show homeowners the carbon impact, building costs, and financial returns for energy efficiency improvements as well as the economic calculations of green lending.
Ensuring that every home is weatherized and equipped with energy-efficient systems should not only be a possibility, but a reality for all. Community Assistance Programs (CAPs), such as West CAP, play a vital role in enabling low-income communities to access these essential upgrades, fostering fair and equitable advancements in energy conservation that benefit both finances and the environment.
Join Peter Kilde, executive director of West CAP, as he guides us through the array of weatherization and energy assistance initiatives available, shedding light on the successes and hurdles encountered by CAPs in this episode of the Rise Up Podcast.
Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) information and application: https://energyandhousing.wi.gov/Pages/AgencyResources/energy-assistance.aspx
Get Connected:
Rise Up Podcast: https://www.riseupmidwest.org
The Energy Fair: https://www.theenergyfair.org
The MREA: https://www.midwestrenew.org
Email: Info@midwestrenew.org
0:00 Peter Kilde Introduction and Bio
5:53 What are CAP agencies?
7:53 Services provided by CAP agencies
11:08 Exciting innovations and programs
14:08 Weatherization Assistance Program
18:33 Weatherization process
20:54 Energy assistance
22:49 West CAP successes and challenges
32:01 Energy efficiency and incentives
35:22 Growing opportunity in energy efficiency
39:24 Magic wand solutions
41:59 Inspiring the next generation
ABOUT OUR GUEST: PETER KILDE
Since 1995, Peter Kilde has been executive director of the West Central Wisconsin Community Action Agency Inc. (West CAP), a community action agency that works to alleviate poverty through affordable housing development, homelessness intervention, food security and other sustainable community asset-building initiatives.
In the past ten years, West CAP has ramped up efforts to offer more affordable housing. Driven by the urgency to address climate change impacts on vulnerable populations worldwide, Kilde has championed the integration of energy-efficient practices into the agency's housing projects.
Recognized for his outstanding leadership in affordable housing innovation and energy conservation, Peter Kilde was honored with the 2013 Charles M. Hill Sr. Award for Housing Excellence.
His passion for community advocacy has led to serving on the National Community Action Partnership Board and co-chairs its Strategic Visions Committee, which focuses on the depletion of other natural resources, environmental degradation, and how economic turmoil impacts low income communities.
He also serves on the Wisconsin CAP Assn. (WISCAP) Board, the regional Workforce Development Board, and as Board Chair of Slipstream, a Wisconsin-based national nonprofit linking energy conservation, and social equity. He is also former chair of the St. Croix Valley Foundation Board.
Additionally, Kilde served on the Association for the Study of Peak Oil & Gas USA (ASPO – USA) Board, his regional Workforce Development Board, the local Habitat for Humanity Board, and the Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation Board.
Before West CAP, Peter worked for the Amherst H. Wilder Foundation of St. Paul, Minnesota where, for ten years, he was operations director of Wilder Forest, a 1,200-acre conference and education center highlighting the interconnectedness of social and environmental issues.
For many, conducting an energy audit and installing energy efficient systems can be a financial challenge. Inclusive financing, like the Pay As You Save (PAYS) program, hopes to ease that challenge by allowing homeowners and tenants to pay a monthly charge along with their utility bill, instead of footing the bill up front or taking out a loan.
Learn how this process works, including the benefits of on-bill financing, available funding options, and how your state can get started in this episode of the Rise Up Podcast featuring James Owen, executive director of Renew Missouri.
Get Connected:
Rise Up Podcast: https://www.riseupmidwest.org
The Energy Fair: https://www.theenergyfair.org
The MREA: https://www.midwestrenew.org
Email: Info@midwestrenew.org
00:00 James Owen Introduction and Bio
2:19 James’s career
4:22 Enabling legislation
7:26 Pay as you Save financing
14:11 HOMEs and HERA funding
17:14 Benefits of on-bill financing
18:37 Contractor networks and certification
20:36 Financing the donut hole
23:01 Rural electric co-ops and municipal utilities
27:37 PACE vs PAYS
32:02 Guidance for other states
36:54 Inflation Reduction Act
38:35 Solar in PAYS
41:35 Wrap up
ABOUT OUR GUEST: JAMES OWEN
Growing up on a farm in Missouri, James Owen has used his rural roots experience in becoming a dedicated champion for consumer protection and strategic resource management.
In 2017, he was named Executive Director of Renew Missouri. In this capacity, he's dedicated to advancing the organization's goal of positioning Missouri as a leading state in clean energy. His efforts involve policy advocacy, formulation, litigation, public education, as well as outreach initiatives like lobbying and social media.
James holds a BA from Drury University in Springfield and a law degree from the University of Kansas, a licensed attorney in both Kansas and Missouri, allowing him to oversee the legal responsibilities for Renew Missouri. He also serves as an expert witness before the Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC). Previously, James was appointed as Public Counsel by Governor Jay Nixon, advocating for the public before the PSC.
Renew Missouri has been leading the charge for a program called Pay As You Save (PAYS), a program designed to help utility customers finance energy efficiency improvements. PAYS stands out from other "on-bill financing" options because it's not a traditional loan. Instead, you agree to a monthly fee on your bill, and the utility covers the costs of energy-efficient upgrades. The key to PAYS is ensuring that the savings from these upgrades are higher than your monthly fee, so you end up saving without any upfront costs.
Becoming more energy efficient not only cuts costs but also helps preserve our planet. Whether it's transitioning to electric, conducting energy audits, or enhancing energy systems, committing to energy efficiency today promises future savings and fosters a healthier environment for everyone.
Discover ways to enhance energy efficiency, with a special focus on agricultural and rural enterprises, in this episode of the Rise Up Podcast. Hear from Jenny Brinker, project manager at GDS Associates, Inc., as she explores the available opportunities and resources for a greener tomorrow.
Get Connected:
Rise Up Podcast: https://www.riseupmidwest.org
The Energy Fair: https://www.theenergyfair.org
The MREA: https://www.midwestrenew.org
Email: Info@midwestrenew.org
00:00 Background and History
3:45 Jobs in Energy Efficiency
7:27 GDS Associates
9:37 Importance of building energy efficiency
10:57 Decarbonization
13:12 Lowest cost energy efficiency improvements
16:38 Demand charges
20:13 Air source heat pumps
26:56 Building energy efficiently
28:54 Focus on Energy
30:47 Farms and energy efficiency
34:43 Planning and resources
37:20 Challenges facing energy efficiency
41:06 Energy awareness
44:56 Energy professionals and incentives
ABOUT OUR GUEST: JENNY BRINKER
Jenny Brinker is a Project Manager at GDS Associates, Inc. in Madison, Wisconsin and brings over 18 years of expertise in energy efficiency consulting. Focusing on serving farming communities and rural businesses, Brinker’s skills in Energy Management program implementation and technology have made her a key player in driving sustainable energy practices in the agricultural sector.
A Wisconsin native, Brinker holds a Master's degree in Energy, Environment, and Natural Resources Law from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and is a Certified Energy Manager recognized by the Association of Energy Engineers.
She has also demonstrated a passion for education. Her involvement in course creation for KEEP (Wisconsin’s K-12 Energy Education Program) has strengthened the school program across the state, and, even after returning to GDS, continues to serve as an adjunct professor for the Energy Management Technology program at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College. In 2019, Brinker was one of nine instructors nationwide selected by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Center for Renewable Energy Advanced Technological Education (CREATE) to study renewable energy storage in Germany and share that knowledge with college programs throughout the United States.
Nick Hylla, MREA Executive Director & Rise Up Podcast host, led Rise Up Live Events and a live panel during The Energy Fair! Participants had the opportunity to hear from the guests of Season 4 throughout the weekend, followed by a Q&A session on Sunday.
On Friday, June 23rd, in the Special Events Tent, attendees enjoyed insightful presentations:
Saturday, June 24th, in the Special Events Tent, featured more engaging talks:
Sunday, June 25th, marked the Midwest Energy Transition Panel on the Main Stage at 10:30 a.m. The panel featured the guests from Rise Up Season 4, creating an enlightening discussion on the topic.
Nick Hylla, MREA Executive Director & Rise Up Podcast host, led Rise Up Live Events and a live panel during The Energy Fair! Participants had the opportunity to hear from the guests of Season 4 throughout the weekend, followed by a Q&A session on Sunday.
On Friday, June 23rd, in the Special Events Tent, attendees enjoyed insightful presentations:
Saturday, June 24th, in the Special Events Tent, featured more engaging talks:
Sunday, June 25th, marked the Midwest Energy Transition Panel on the Main Stage at 10:30 a.m. The panel featured the guests from Rise Up Season 4, creating an enlightening discussion on the topic.
n a time when corporate spending is protected as free speech, each of us must wonder how our voices will be heard. Utility companies have deep pockets, and their lobbyists are a fixture at state capitol buildings. Big businesses have big energy budgets and their associations are adept at making their issues a priority. And both of these industry sectors work together to create advocacy groups to advance common interests. So, what about residential energy customers? What about small businesses? Our resources pale in comparison. How are our voices heard and how are our concerns addressed?
Luckily, for most residential and small business ratepayers in the Midwest, we are represented by a state Citizens Utility Board (CUB). These non-profit groups work tirelessly to make sure that our needs are represented at public utility commission and legislative hearings. For decades they have taken a hardnosed approach at keeping electricity costs low while ensuring that expenses aren’t shifted to the electric bills of homes and small businesses.
In the context of the energy transition, CUBs advocacy role is critically important if we want an energy system that best serves people. We discuss the energy transition and the benefits of increased citizen involvement with Tom Content, long-time journalist and Executive Director of the Citizens Utility Board of Wisconsin.
0:20 – Big business energy spending vs residential ratepayers
1:17 – The role of a Citizens Utility Board
4:04 – The energy transition’s origins
8:41 – Decisions surrounding utility rates of return
11:13 – Importance of CUB and Energy Democracy
13:35 – CUB funding and activity
18:11 – Evolving energy issues and solar PV
20:45 – Energy poverty issues
28:20 – Impact of recent federal legislation
33:34 - Coordination recommendations to leverage federal funds
39:11 – “Magic wand” solutions
43:21 – Building a movement
" We need people from across the state to get involved. And because it's your energy future, ...it's all of our energy future. And if we don't get involved, it'll be built for us and it'll focus on the supply side like we've been talking about almost way too exclusively. We need the public to say to demand energy efficiency. "
- Tom Content, Executive Director, Citizens Utility Board of Wisconsin
ABOUT OUR GUEST: TOM CONTENT
Tom is the Executive Director of the Citizens Utility Board. He joined CUB in 2017 after working for more than 30 years as a journalist. He became interested in energy and what it costs households while sitting in the back seat, waiting for what seemed like forever, during the gas lines of the ‘70s. After graduating from Boston University’s College of Communication Tom worked at newspapers in Massachusetts and Pennsylvania before moving to Wisconsin. He reported on utilities and worked as business editor at the Green Bay-Press Gazette in the 1990s and then moved to Milwaukee, where he covered energy, utilities and sustainable business for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. His reporting on energy and climate change won the National Press Club’s Stokes Award for Energy Writing in 2007.
The first and largest US financial maneuver in response to COVID-19 was an unprecedented bailout of Wall Street investors to head off an impending stock market crash. Building upon the “Modern Monetary Theory” implemented to bail out the banking sector after the mortgage default crisis in 2008, the Federal Reserve committed up to $10 trillion in support for investors. As a result, the stock market became a graph of shareholder feelings while 30 million Americans had already filed jobless claims.
Millions of Americans live in debt, survive paycheck to paycheck, and work in the service industry which was mothballed - leaving people at home with deep feelings of insecurity. By May 25th 2020, US Billionaires were $434 billion richer on invented money, and we were watching George Floyd die tragically on the North Minneapolis streets at the hands of a police officer.
The alleged crime that led to his death? Passing a counterfeit $20 bill.
It’s tempting to say the rest is history, but it might be more accurate to say that it’s a continuation of history. North Minneapolis, like many cities in America, continues to suffer from policies established in the early 1900’s that restricted minority home ownership and access to financing. Collectively known as redlining, the policies included racially restricted covenants on property deeds preventing African Americans and other groups from buying homes in much of the City. Over time, the policies evolved to become lending restrictions that blocked access to business loans and home mortgages.
In the context of the energy transition, numerous studies show the elevated risk of low-income neighborhoods to pollution caused by the energy industry, that low-income households pay 3 times more of their household income for energy bills than higher income households, and that both of these factors are correlated with historically red-lined areas. In the wake of the financial bailout of investors, hard fought public policy wins over the last two years are set to allocate resources to programs and initiatives working to address the inequities.
These include Minneapolis Green Zones, the City’s Green cost share program and Green Careers Exploration program, and the Minneapolis Climate Equity Action Plan. With the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, significant federal funding is directed to clean energy investments and job training programs in low-income neighborhoods, and the state of Minnesota just passed sweeping legislation that advances environmental protections and clean energy investment in designated environmental justice communities.
The prospect of city, state, and federal policies working together to make the next decade of local clean energy development benefit North Minneapolis and other areas of need in the city, is very real. And the people working in the neighborhood to make sure this happens are as real as it gets. We’ve had the privilege of working with a number of local groups to provide solar installation training in North Minneapolis over the last 3 years and are inspired by their accomplishments and the opportunities that they are creating. To discuss the opportunities and challenges, we talked with Markeeta Keyes who leads the Green Careers Exploration program with the City of Minneapolis.
The topic of workforce development is near and dear to our hearts at MREA. We started providing training in solar PV, solar thermal, small wind energy, and energy efficiency in 1990. We were one of the first accredited solar training programs in the country and still maintain accreditation with the Interstate Renewable Energy Council to this day. For over thirty years we’ve committed ourselves to offering the most accessible, affordable, and market relevant solar training and today more than 600 individuals a year utilize our training to get a foothold in the industry, earn certifications, and sharpen their skills.
In 2011, when we started our first instructor training program, the market was much different than today. Solar employment demand was pretty much only real in California and Hawaii with other states just starting to shine. The national electrician shortage was forecast but seemed a distant and avoidable problem. Utility companies were opposed to solar projects, even large-scale facilities, indicated the technology would never be ready for prime time.
One group that fully recognized the transformative potential of solar energy was the US Dept. of Energy which launched the SunShot Initiative with the goal of reducing the cost of solar energy by 75% and making it the cheapest source of electricity in the US. This goal, I should note, was met with much skepticism at the time. Today we know that the cost declines envisioned by SunShot were achieved earlier and more steeply than anyone expected. With the last 5 years of solar and wind as the leading sources of new energy capacity additions in the US, the promise of a solar jobs boom started to become reality. And now, with a massive federal energy infrastructure investment that locks in a decade of tax policy certainty, the market is fundamentally changed from a decade ago and the doubts about employment needs have been erased. Today, we can confidently say that there have never been more employment opportunities for skilled workers, young and old.
To explore the needs, opportunities, and challenges to meet the workforce needs of the energy transition, we talked with Richard Lawrence, Program Director with the Interstate Renewable Energy Council.
___________________
0:20 – MREA's history in solar workforce development
3:53 – Federal legislation impacting the energy workforce
7:11 - Scale of the workforce need
8:06 – Inflation Reduction Act’s impact on workforce needs
9:10 – Key provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act
12:42 – In demand career positions for the energy transition
16:00 – Inflation Reduction Act and labor provisions
18:50 – How to join an apprenticeship program
20:23 - Benefits of apprenticeships to employers
23:36 - Federal investment impact on solar certifications
26:00 – In demand occupations during the energy transition
28:00 – Considerations for project developers
30:30 – Occupations for meter connected solar
33:00 – Programs to inspire
35:07 – Inclusion in the energy workforce
39:25 – A magic solution to workforce shortage
42:22 – The value of NABCEP certification
47:50 – The next generation of solar PV instructors
Episode Resources:
Since 2018, the United States has expanded its list of critical minerals from 35 to 50 as supply chains have become increasingly concentrated to fewer countries and the needs for minerals in industrial and consumer products have increased. Beginning in 2022, the Biden Administration began making serious federal policy moves to secure critical mineral supply chains by invoking the Defense Production Act and passing sweeping legislation to increase domestic production of minerals used to develop batteries for electric vehicles and other energy storage applications. The move signaled a recognition that without securing critical mineral supply chains, the US would not be able to compete in emerging energy technology markets and we would not be able to meet electrification and decarbonization goals.
To many in the domestic mining industry, the move was a surprising turn of favor, and all indications are that the change in federal priority is not temporary. It is a result of geopolitical trends that are challenging global supply chains for critical minerals and domestic energy priorities that increase critical mineral demand. The context is that we are in a global race for the future of energy, making the capacity for critical mineral extraction, refining, and clean tech manufacturing in today’s economy equivalent to the historic development of petroleum extraction and refining capacity.
To further explore the potential of domestic mining and refining of critical minerals and discuss the challenges, we talked to two experts working in the Midwest. We first talked with Dr. Snehamoy Chatterjee, associate professor of geological and mining engineering and sciences at Michigan Tech about the mining process, domestic needs, and mining innovations. And we talked with Dr. Al Gedicks, emeritus professor at UW- La Crosse about the historic and current challenges facing sulfide mining in the Midwest.
Host: Nick Hylla, MREA Executive Director
Guests: Dr. Snehamoy Chatterjee, Associate Professor, Geological & Mining Engineering & Sciences, Michigan Technological University, and Al Gedicks, Emeritus Professor of environmental sociology, UW – La Crosse
Show notes –
0:20 – Critical Mineral needs for an energy transition
4:28 – Domestic mineral requirements in recent federal legislation
10:17 -Expanding existing mining operations
11:50 – Minerals required to pursue electrification
14:11 – China's dominance of mineral processing
15:53 – Mining methods and processes
20:48 – Mining vs mineral processing
23:49 – Workforce and other needs of the mining industry
29:00 – Feasibility of fully domestic mineral supply chains
31:53 – Discovery vs. Exploration
33:50 – Timeline from permitting to start of mining operation
36:06 – Steps to approach mining successfully
39:15 – Metallic sulfide mining and tribal communities
43:20 – Material processing in metallic sulfide mining
52:30 – Process to develop a mine in Wisconsin
57:15 – Community concerns surrounding mining operations
1:01:00 – Mining operations’ impact on communities
1:06:12 - Boom and Bust nature of mining operations
1:07:38 – Optimal locations to pursue mineral extraction and next steps
1:16:12 - The psychology of inevitability
Get Connected:
Eleven US states plus the District of Columbia have passed laws committing to 100% carbon-free or 100% clean energy. The path to 100% is full of choices that influence the cost to electricity ratepayers, ownership of critical infrastructure, and access to the financial and social benefits of energy infrastructure investment. A few detailed national studies have forecast scenarios to achieve 100% carbon-free electricity. These include net zero scenarios from Bloomberg New Energy Finance, the US Dept. Of Energy Solar Futures Study, and Vibrant Clean Energy’s Roadmap for the Lowest Cost Grid.
The national studies are informative, but state policy and regulation have significant influence over how state energy markets develop. This places responsibility on state leadership to define the most advantageous pathways and advance policies and programs to achieve them. In both Illinois and Minnesota, the recent legislation that established 100% clean energy goals was passed when the Democratic party held majorities in the legislatures and governors' offices. And the legislation passed on party-line votes. This is a clear indication that in Midwest states that have divided government, these types of commitments face political opposition.
One such state is Wisconsin, where Republicans hold sizable majorities in the assembly and senate while the state has a Democratic Governor with ambitious clean energy plans. In support of these plans, two state policy groups – Clean Wisconsin and Renew Wisconsin – partnered with GridLab and Evolved Energy Research to forecast scenarios for achieving 100% clean energy in Wisconsin by 2050. Using the scenarios, they produced a roadmap that demonstrates how Wisconsin can cost-effectively transition to net zero emissions. We discussed the study and its recommendations with Chelsea Chandler, program director at Clean Wisconsin.
Host: Nick Hylla, MREA Executive Director
Guest: Chelsea Chandler, Climate, Energy, and Air Program Director, Clean Wisconsin
-Live Event at The Energy Fair: Catch Chelsea at her Rise Up Live Event at The 2023 Energy Fair on Friday, June 23rd at 2 p.m. Get your tickets at theenergyfair.org/tickets.
-Show notes – timestamps we want to include from the episode from worthwhile subjects
0:20 – Nick overviews state commitments to clean energy in the Midwest
3:48 – How divided government impacts clean energy
6:28 - Overview of Clean Wisconsin’s work
7:40 – Wisconsin's pathways to 100% clean energy study
13:47 – Coal plant closures and decarbonization
17:10 – Electrification and Transmission
20:32 – Local resistance and land use size calculations
28:53 – Additional benefits of solar over corn ethanol
30:03 - Solar’s benefit to local governments
34:12 - Challenges and opportunities within different transition scenarios
36:25 – Additional costs of inaction on electrification
41:57 – DERs in the energy transition
43:33 – Next steps for Wisconsin’s path to 100%
50:39 – Basing energy discussion around real-world pros and cons
Episode Resources: riseupmidwest.org
-Get Connected:
Clean Wisconsin: https://www.cleanwisconsin.org
The Energy Fair: https://www.theenergyfair.org
Today, nuclear energy remains the largest low carbon source of electricity in the world. Yet looking closer at the trend reveals that it is a rapidly decreasing share of the global portfolio as plants are retired and wind and solar consistently lead new energy capacity additions. The US fleet is the largest of any nation, with 94 reactors in 28 states but is gradually shrinking as aging reactors are retired due to maintenance costs and competition from cheaper sources of power like natural gas, wind, and solar.
Over the past 5 years, the financial pressure on nuclear plants has elevated a critical public policy question: Should we take action to keep nuclear plants open? We saw this play out differently in two Midwest states with transformative legislation (both good and bad) and a massive bribery scandal ensnaring utility executives, lobbyists, and elected officials in Ohio and Illinois.
With a new reactor design, known as a small modular reactor (SMR), a production tax credit available for nuclear projects through the Inflation Reduction Act, and financing support available from the US Dept. Of Energy Loan Program Office, public utility commissions are or will be reviewing proposals for the construction of the next generation of nuclear reactors. The promoters of new nuclear reactors will point to increases in CO2 emissions in New York, New England, and Pennsylvania after nuclear facilities closed in each region. They point to countries like Germany whose reliance on natural gas and coal run counterproductive to their climate and geopolitical goals. And, they say that the US needs the baseload power that nuclear offers for continued grid stability. Arguments against nuclear include safety concerns, global nuclear proliferation, more socially advantageous options in distributed solar and wind, and eyebrow-raising costs and delays in recent projects.
With this in mind, we talk with two experts in nuclear technology and economics in the US. We discuss the role that US nuclear could play in a low-carbon electricity future, the current proposal being entertained, and the challenges facing the industry. We start with Paul Wilson, Grainger Professor of Nuclear Engineering and the Chair of the University of Wisconsin-Madison‘s Department of Engineering Physics. Then we discuss the economics of small modular reactors with David Schlissel, Director of Resource Planning Analysis at the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis.
Host: Nick Hylla, MREA Executive Director
Guests: Dr. Paul Wilson, Chair, Department of Engineering Physics, UW - Madison
David Schlissel, Director of Resource Planning Analysis, Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis
Episode resources: RiseUpMidwest.org
Live Event at The Energy Fair: https://www.theenergyfair.org/events/rise-up-live-events/
Show notes
0:20 – Nick overviews the current status of the aging nuclear fleet in the US
2:38 – Corruption issues surrounding nuclear legislation
5:27 – The financial costs of nuclear power
8:02 – Advancements in nuclear energy
9:30 – Small modular reactors
11:49 – Challenges facing the nuclear industry
16:21 – Opportunities for nuclear energy in the energy transition
20:18 – The process to build new nuclear capacity in Wisconsin
25:24 - License extensions for existing nuclear plants
29:53 – Management of used nuclear fuel
32:34 – Public engagement for the nuclear industry
39:23 – Energy storage in the Energy Transition
42:40 – France’s reputation with nuclear energy
49:23 – Nuclear fusion breakthroughs
57:05 – Nuclear cost overruns in Georgia
58:32 – Current vs SMR reactors
1:03:28 – Factors contributing to cost overruns
1:09:40 – Cost competitiveness
1:12:23 – Variability of solar and wind power
1:16:59 – Marketing of SMRs