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News of the week
August 14, 2024
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Old wind turbine blades pile up, highlighting recycling challenges
A pile of more than 100 discarded wind turbine blades in Grand Meadow, Minnesota illustrates the broader challenge of recycling old wind energy infrastructure. Since 2020, the blades have been stored on an empty lot, creating safety hazards and diminishing property values for nearby residents. The situation has exposed a significant issue: the lack of a robust recycling market for fiberglass components of wind turbines.
The blades were initially slated for recycling through RiverCap Ventures, a company that went out of business before fulfilling its commitments. Canvus, a new venture by former RiverCap employees, has taken on responsibility for the blades but faces financial hurdles in moving them. Local and state officials are now involved, with the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission set to discuss potential solutions. This case highlights the need for better end-of-life plans for renewable energy infrastructure as the industry continues to grow.
To read more, click here.
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Minnesota Department of Commerce hosting webinar on electric grid resiliency grants on Friday
The Minnesota Department of Commerce (DOC) invites municipal and cooperative utilities in Minnesota to participate in a Microsoft Teams webinar on Friday, August 16, 2024, from 9:00–10:00 am about the request for proposals for the first round of the Minnesota State Electric Grid Resilience Grants program.
Register for the webinar here.
DOC will go over the request for proposals (RFP) and welcomes questions about the RFP and the program timeline. This webinar will be recorded, and slides will be posted online following the webinar. Questions will be compiled and responses will be posted on the Electric Grid Resilience program website.
If you would like to be included on MMUA's communications list for future grant information, please reach out to Christian Glanville.
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Heartland Energy reveals new strategic plan
MMUA associate member Heartland Energy recently announced its strategic plan, developed with Mark McCain of Hometown Connections, Inc. (HCI). CEO Russell Olson highlighted that the plan aims to define the organization’s purpose and outline strategies for success.
The process began in March with staff brainstorming potential goals via an online survey, followed by feedback from board members and customers. All stakeholders ranked their priorities, which guided the two-day board workshop to finalize the plan.
Heartland’s plan focuses on four main goals:
- Finances: Maintain stable rates and strong finances.
- Operations: Increase power sales and enhance operational efficiency.
- Services: Offer valuable programs and maintain customer relationships.
- Advocacy and Innovation: Identify opportunities and threats, advocate for stability, and drive growth.
Heartland Energy, based in Madison, SD, provides wholesale power and customer service programs across South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, and Nebraska.
To learn more, click here.
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DOE aims to reduce energy storage costs with new initiatives
The US Department of Energy (DOE) is targeting a levelized cost of $0.05/kWh for long-duration energy storage by 2030, aiming for a 90% reduction from 2020 baseline costs of lithium-ion batteries. In its August 6 report, DOE examined cost projections for 11 technologies, including electrochemical, mechanical, thermal, and chemical solutions.
Projected costs for 2030 varied, with compressed air at $0.064/kWh and sodium batteries at $0.553/kWh. Innovations like improved manufacturing and enhanced battery electrolytes could yield significant savings, particularly for pumped hydro (85% reduction) and lead-acid batteries (77% reduction).
On August 7, DOE announced $100 million for large-scale energy storage projects and a new $75 million Grid Storage Launchpad at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. These initiatives are expected to advance a diverse portfolio of storage technologies, enhancing grid flexibility and reliability.
To read more, click here.
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Which utility has the best tasting water? Find out at the State Fair!
It’s almost time for the Tap Water Taste Test at the Minnesota State Fair!
Hosted by the American Water Works Assocation, the contest will be held on the first day of the State Fair, Thursday, August 22, from 12:00–1:00 pm at the Eco Experience building. The winning utility’s water will be selected by state fair attendees.
If you want to enter your city’s water, please contact Kirk Peterson by Monday, August 19th (one week away!) about coordinating delivery of a 1-gallon sample.
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$1.3 billion in funding announced for EV charging infrastructure
The Biden-Harris Administration has launched a $1.3 billion funding opportunity for electric vehicle (EV) charging and alternative-fueling infrastructure. This investment, the largest of its kind to date, aims to enhance clean transportation in urban and rural areas as well as along major highways and interstates.
Funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program and the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program, the initiative supports state, regional, Tribal, and local government entities. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) administers the CFI program with guidance from the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation.
The funding aims to deploy Level 2 and DC fast EV chargers nationwide, focusing on multi-family housing and disadvantaged communities. It supports the National Zero-Emission Freight Strategy and aligns with President Biden's goal of establishing 500,000 public EV charging stations by 2030.
Eligible applicants can apply by August 28, 2024. For more information, visit FHWA’s CFI Discretionary Grant Program website.
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Tree Trimming Workshop
October 8–10
Elk River Municipal Utilities
We are excited to once again offer a Tree Trimming Workshop this fall. One of MMUA's most popular programs, the Tree Trimming Workshop will be hosted by Elk River Municipal Utilities this year.
This workshop is intended for any municipal employee responsible for tree work, not just lineworkers. The program will include classroom and hands-on instruction in the field.
Training will be led by MMUA's Jake Kuntz, Cody Raveling, and Jay Reading. All three bring a wealth of tree care experience, including a 30-hour training course. Jake is a licensed Minnesota tree inspector, and he is working toward becoming a certified arborist.
Registration is limited to 50 participants. Please click links below for full details on this technical training opportunity. Register by September 6 for best rate!
Please click here for full details on this worthwhile training opportunity. Register by September 6 for the best rate.
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As always, thank you for your association with MMUA and your commitment to delivering excellent service through locally owned utility assets in your community. Have a great week!
Christian Glanville
Marketing and Member Relations Manager
Direct: 763.746.0727 / Cell: 612.655.0598
Fax: 763.551.0459
cglanville@mmua.org | www.mmua.org
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Hometown services. Hometown strengths. Hometown solutions. | | | | |
