Solar Energy for Minnesota Governments
Minnesota Governments Are Leading the Solar RevolutionAs municipal and county governments work to reduce their carbon footprint and the impact they make on climate change, a growing number of them are turning to solar panels. Not only are solar panel installations for governments environmentally friendly and carbon neutral, but they also provide a year-round, low-cost alternative to buying electricity from utilities. One recent example, the City of Brooklyn Park asked Cedar Creek Energy to install solar panels. On bright, sunny days, they generate excess energy which is purchased by the electrical utility allowing the city to use what’s called “net metering” to recoup its expense. But even on cloudy days, the solar panels generate power for the city. Net metering reduces the city’s day-to-day operating expenses while grants and other Federal solar incentives allow Brooklyn Park to also minimize its initial financial investment. As a result, the solar energy system has a high ROI and will pay for itself in about seven years!
Environmental Benefits for Government Solar Installations Minnesota
Clearly, the dollar savings provide a big incentive to go solar. But the environmental benefits for government solar installation are even bigger.
The positive environment effect for towns, cities, and counties installing solar include creating less air pollution and reduced reliance on fossil fuels and other non-renewable resources.
- No smokestacks
- No trains and trucks hauling coal
- No pipelines for gas
- No nuclear domes or impossible-to-dispose of nuclear waste.
Everything comes from the sun. Solar is especially appealing for city, county, and state government buildings to go solar because it is a way of honoring the demands of their residents who are ever-more conscious of the impact of climate change.
Financing + Rebates
Take full advantage of the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Among other climate-positive initiatives, the IRA’s new Investment Tax Credit is game-changing for MN businesses considering a solar power installation or a string of solar projects over the coming years.
EPC Services
We design, install, and operate commercial solar PV arrays throughout the Midwest and have over 14 years of demonstrated experience with large, complex solar arrays. Learn more about our EPC Services online or by calling 763-334-6406.
Power Purchase Agreements
Minnesota businesses can convert to solar powered energy systems without tying up funds in a capital investment, or having any operating and maintenance costs, while cutting what they pay for electricity as they reduce their carbon footprint. This is done with a Power Purchase Agreement.
Operation + Maintenance
A critical component to maximizing your sunshine power is making sure you have a solid operation and maintenance agreement in place. At Cedar Creek Energy, we provide a suite of services that support green energy and sustainable building practices.
Commercial Solar Project Gallery
Team Members
lbs Coal Unsed
Propane Tanks Saved
Tons of CO2 Saved
Properly Maintaining Solar Panels for Minnesota Governments
While the system includes a 25-year warranty, by maintaining the solar panels properly a government unit can extend the life much longer.
Many of our commercial and government customers have maintenance and operating contracts with Cedar Creek Energy. Our professional team helps with preventative maintenance such as:
- Routine inspections
- Reducing the effects of normal wear and tear
- Checkups and condition-based maintenance
- Real-time monitoring to prevent downtime
- Corrective maintenance including repairs if there is an equipment breakdown.
Protecting ROI for MN Government Solar Panels
Coupled with the up-front financial incentives provided to Minnesota Governments for installing solar and the speedy ROI, solar panels are easy to maintain. All it takes is a garden.
Rinsing them twice a year will clear away the dust, dirt, and grime that builds up on solar panels in Minnesota. For larger solar installations on government buildings, often we recommend installing a sprinkler system if they are on a roof.
Governments sometimes opt to ask Cedar Creek Energy to oversee the ongoing operation and maintenance, or O&M, of its panels so that they don’t need to train their own dedicated staff to undergo special training. Many of the issues that crop up with a solar energy system can be avoided with routine maintenance, a necessity to maximize the ROI of the system. – always important in an era of tight government budgets.
An O&M solar maintenance contract will:
- Avoid the cost of training government personnel
- Maximize the solar panel system’s ability to generate the maximum amount of power
- Protect a valuable public asset while reducing the risks
- Ensure that the system complies with state and federal regulations as well as the specifications of the local utility grid
- Receive immediate help if an issue does come up
Interested in Solar for Your Local Government?
If you are responsible for government office or other facility, call and talk with us about the specific requirements and goals. We’ve been working with homeowners, commercial structures and governments in Minnesota for more than 10 years. We can find a cost-effective, environmentally-friendly solar panel solution for your city or county government. We love working with Minnesota Governments. Contact us for a free quote.
Government Solar Blog Posts
FAQs About Solar Panels for Government in MN
What types of solar energy systems are suitable for Minnesota governments?
Minnesota governments can benefit from a range of solar energy systems, including rooftop installations, ground-mounted arrays, and solar carports. The choice depends on available space, energy requirements, and budget considerations, ensuring a tailored solution that aligns with the government’s goals.
Are there any financial incentives available for Minnesota governments to adopt solar energy?
Minnesota governments have access to various financial incentives for embracing solar energy. These include federal tax incentives, state grants, rebates, and renewable energy credits. These incentives significantly offset installation costs, making solar adoption an economically viable and environmentally responsible choice.
How can solar energy benefit the budget of Minnesota governments?
Solar energy brings substantial cost savings to Minnesota governments by reducing electricity expenses. With predictable energy costs and potentially generating surplus energy that can be sold back to the grid, solar adoption enhances budget predictability and frees up resources for other essential services and initiatives.
What is the process of installing a solar energy system for a Minnesota government building?
The process of installing a solar energy system for a Minnesota government building involves several stages. It begins with project assessment and feasibility analysis, followed by design, permitting, equipment procurement, and installation. Collaborating with experienced providers streamlines the process, ensuring compliance with regulations and efficient project execution.
How long does it take to install a solar energy system for a Minnesota government building?
The installation timeline for a solar energy system on a Minnesota government building varies based on factors like system size, complexity, and permitting. Generally, it can take a few months from project initiation to completion. Experienced solar energy providers ensure timely execution while adhering to high-quality standards.
Does Cedar Creek Energy provide monitoring systems for solar energy systems in Minnesota government buildings?
Cedar Creek Energy offers advanced monitoring systems for solar energy systems in Minnesota government buildings. These systems provide real-time insights into energy production, performance, and potential issues. Remote monitoring ensures optimal system operation, prompt issue detection, and maximum energy generation, contributing to long-term efficiency and benefits.