Unless you’re an insider, you probably have no idea how many electric utility companies there are in Minnesota. You may not even know that not all utility companies are the same.

How do you improve the energy efficiency of apartments and other rental units when renters don’t own the property or appliances and landlords don’t see the benefits in their pocketbooks from improvement because they don’t pay the utility bills?

If you’re interested in energy issues, you’re no doubt aware that we’ve seen some damaging energy policy introduced at the Minnesota Capitol this legislative session. One bright spot, however, is the existing bipartisan support for solar in Minnesota.

3.31.12 // This Saturday, March 31, join the North Star Sierra Club and the Minnesota Renewable Energy Society for a free public workshop on solar power.

If you’ve made a concerted effort to increase the efficiency of your home, you understand the positive impact it can have on your family’s budget.

Do you know which U.S. states are in the best position to harness solar power for their electricity needs? If your first instinct is to start naming states where they grow oranges, you’ll be surprised by where solar is flourishing.

The U.S. Solar Energy Industry Association recently released its third-quarter industry report for 2011, and the results sure look sunny.

Job creation, money savings, and making the most of Minnesota’s homegrown energy resource—putting solar panels on public buildings makes the most of a triple-win situation.

Recently, as part of their CIP requirements, Minnesota’s utilities filed plans with the Department of Commerce outlining current and future efficiency programs. So how are they doing?

Minnesota is no stranger to the business of importing and exporting energy, we’re just usually on the receiving end. We