The state of Minnesota requires 25% of MVEC’s electric energy sales come from renewable energy sources by 2025. Many Americans are looking to alternative solutions to help them save money and protect the environment.
Wind
Wind power is created by using wind to spin a 3-blade turbine, which spins an electric generator. There are several different styles and sizes of wind turbines. Typically, wind turbines are mounted on tall (120-250 foot) towers in order to access the best wind. Wind power installations can be expensive and tend to be best suited to high wind regions where the best possible production can be attained. For example, about 40% of the nameplate rating energy is possible in the Dakotas but it tends to be under 20% within MVEC’s service area.
Solar
Solar power is taking energy from the sun’s radiation and converting it into heat or electricity. There are a variety of solar options. One of them is photovoltaic systems (PV’s). PV’s absorb the energy from the sun and convert it into electricity. This is a clean and environmentally safe and renewable energy source that is readily available because there is no need to drill, mine or transport it. There are various systems available from flat roof to ground mount systems.
Battery Storage
Many feel that battery storage is a key component to help bring renewable energy into the 
mainstream. Energy from wind or solar can be stored in batteries and released into the grid when the wind is low, or the sun is covered, or the market price of energy is high. Battery storage energy can be deployed rapidly into the grid whenever it is needed, at the right amounts to serve the load.
MVEC is participating in a residential battery storage research project to see if this technology can deliver an affordable, reliable solution to its utility business. There will be one-to-two years of testing and if feasible, a program is planned for the membership in 2013 or 2014.
If you plan to investigate various energy sources, we encourage members to do their homework by talking to others who have a similar system, conduct complete due diligence on the economic benefits, legal issues, zoning regulations, maintenance and operating costs, and get references on vendors before making a purchase. The State Board of Electricity requires renewable energy sources be installed by a qualified licensed electrician and MVEC requires members to submit an application to connect to its electric lines. The installation must meet the State of Minnesota Distributed Generation Interconnection Standards.
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