Explore Our Factsheets and Resources:
Renewable Energy and Reliability
Renewable Energy and Property Rights
Renewable Energy and Energy Independence
Wind Delivers Economic Benefits to Minnesota
Solar Delivers Economic Benefits to Minnesota
About Minnesota’s Renewable Energy Leadership
Minnesota is a leader in renewable energy! Renewable energy has created a record number of jobs in the state, surpassing 62,000, and is a driver of economic growth, outpacing the state’s overall job growth fivefold. Minnesota is making renewable energy its go-to power source, and thus Minnesotans have cheaper electric bills than the national average.
Fast Fact #1: Operational Renewable Energy
Minnesota has over 6000 MW of operating wind, solar, and energy storage capacity, ranking 13th nationwide.
Fast Fact #2: Renewable Energy Electricity Share
Almost 30% of electricity produced in Minnesota comes from renewable energy sources.
Fast Fact #3: Capital Investments
The renewable energy industry in Minnesota has seen over $14 billion in capital investments.
Fast Fact #4: Tax Payments
Renewable energy invests in local communities, providing $44 million in annual property, state, and local taxes.
Fast Fact #5: Landowner Payments
Renewable energy provides extra income to farmers and private landowners, providing almost $41 million in annual drought-proof lease payments.
What Can Renewable Energy Projects Offer Local Communities?
Direct payments to landowners who voluntarily host projects on their private property
Employment opportunities during construction and operation of a project
New spending infused into the local economy
New property tax revenue streams to counties
New tax revenue streams can help support essential services such as:
– Education, Infrastructure, and Emergency Services
New tax revenue streams increase the tax base and can relieve the tax burden on residents