Renewable Energy
A Future Full of Possibilities
To bolster the economies of Central Minnesota, the Initiative Foundation is working with partners on renewable energy projects that are sustainable, feasible, build workforce skills and create quality, living-wage jobs.
The Future Looks Bright ...
To bolster the economies of Central Minnesota, the Initiative Foundation is working with partners on renewable energy projects that are sustainable, feasible, build workforce skills and create quality, living-wage jobs.
Sherburne County Coal Generation Station
Since 2016, the Initiative Foundation has been working with the city of Becker to mitigate the community impact of Xcel Energy’s plan to decommission their three coal-burning plants. This will force Becker to lose about 75 percent of the tax base. A new solar array is being planned to offset the power of coal power generation.
The lessons learned through this project could help other communities with aging coal power plants plan for their energy and economic transitions.
Electric Vehicle Events
In the summer of 2022, the Initiative Foundation worked with Recharge America and other partners to host a St. Cloud Electric Vehicle Expo. More than 150 people test drove a vehicle at the event. In 2023, the Foundation sponsored a similar event in Elk River. Both of these events also raised funds for area charities and showcased career opportunities for youth.
Electric Vehicle Charging
We were excited to partner with Minnesota Power to install an electric vehicle charging station at the Initiative Foundation’s Little Falls office. Minnesota Power partners with ZEF ENERGY to power the stations. The cost is $1.50 per hour of charging. The charger includes two charging ports.
Mitigating Climate Change
The Northern Waters Land Trust in Walker has been exploring ways to compensate private landowners for managing their property to maximize woody biomass, which helps keep carbon from the atmosphere. One strategy is to create a collection of properties to help attract grant funds from conservation organizations. These lots can still be harvested for timber. This project may represent a new revenue stream for these properties.
Renewable Energy Initiatives
In 2023, the Initiative Foundation partnered with the University of Minnesota Clean Energy Resource Team to complete a cost-benefit analysis for the installation of solar panels at food shelves in Elk River and Walker. Another project is exploring a geothermal installation for a community-owned workforce housing project. The analysis revealed it would take more than 10 years to cover the cost of the projects. In 2024, the Minnesota Department of Commerce will premiere a program that could cover up to 70 percent of installation costs for all three projects.
News
Rural Voice Town Hall Coming to Little Falls
LITTLE FALLS, MN—The Rural Voice series, developed by several Minnesota Initiative Foundations that serve Greater Minnesota along with the Otto Bremer Trust and Compeer Financial,… Read More
Revitalization Grants OK’d in Five Communities
LITTLE FALLS, MN—Seven hometown projects that will bring more than $1 million in main street improvements to Brainerd, Cold Spring, Little Falls, Pine River and… Read More
Initiative Foundation Awards $1.5 Million-plus During First Quarter
LITTLE FALLS, MN—The Initiative Foundation delivered 130 grants during the first quarter of 2023 totaling more than $1.5 million. More than $963,000 went to businesses… Read More
IQ Magazine Stories
A History of Helping
A look at three businesses that received early—and pivotal— Initiative Foundation loans and how they’ve grown. Read More
Front & Center: Child Care
Emerging community partnerships are taking shape to creatively influence Central Minnesota’s child care crisis. Read More
Main Street Mainstays
Rural grocery stores support Central Minnesota’s food needs. They also foster community. Read More
Contact Us
Do you have a renewable energy idea that might represent an economic opportunity in Central Minnesota? Contact Don Hickman to share your idea and explore whether grants or financing are available.
