Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
Climate Cast ®
Paul Huttner and Ngoc Bui

Minnesota's solar garden program ranks second in the nation, but some say it could do more

solar panels on the lawn outside of a building
A solar garden at the Margaret A. Cargill Lodge at Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center in Finland, Minn.
Chad Holder via Wolf Ridge

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Minnesota’s community solar garden program generated 62 percent of the state’s solar power in 2021. And it’s the second largest such program in the nation. But below the surface, consumer advocates say there’s a gap that needs to be addressed.

Think of solar gardens as community gardens, but instead of producing tomatoes they produce solar energy. The idea is to expand access to solar power by allowing individuals, businesses, schools or institutions to subscribe.

However, Timothy DenHerder-Thomas of Cooperative Energy Futures (CEF) says Minnesota’s program isn’t reaching the individuals and small businesses who would most need it.

He joined Climate Cast to discuss proposed changes to the program and why he believes they are needed.

To hear the full conversation, click play on the audio player above or subscribe to the Climate Cast podcast.