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MPR News with Angela Davis
Angela Davis and Maja Beckstrom

Solar power is on a roll in Minnesota

People stand outside a home with large panels on the roof.
Frank and Angela Haynes had several reasons for installing a solar system on their Albany, Minn., property one of which was to encourage a conversation with their neighbors about renewable energy.
Paul Middlestaedt for MPR News File

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Solar power still accounts for less than 4 percent of electricity generated in Minnesota, but it’s growing fast as a way to reduce carbon emissions from burning fossil fuels. Utility companies in the state are on track to get 10 percent of their electricity from this renewable source by 2030.

But there are still challenges to developing solar, including connecting far-flung solar arrays to the electrical grid and tariffs that boost the cost of importing solar panels manufactured overseas.

MPR News host Angela Davis spoke with two solar developers about the state of the solar industry.

Plus, MPR News senior economics contributor Chris Farrell shares the latest economic news.

Guests: 

  • Eric Pasi has been involved with developing solar in Minnesota for more than 15 years and is chief development officer at Impact Power Solutions, a large solar developer based in Roseville. He's also the author of "CleanWave: A Guide to Success in the Green Recovery." 

  • Jamez Staples is founder and CEO of Renewable Energy Partners in north Minneapolis. The company develops solar projects and trains people to work in green energy jobs.