In the last days of August, there was a buzz of activity at the Lincoln Park Solar Garden. The head of the US Department of Energy, Secretary Jennifer Granholm, toured the site and held a press conference in the shade of the solar panels. She was joined by Senator Tina Smith and Mayor Emily Larson. The Secretary’s visit was part of a tour of innovative renewable energy projects across the country.
Duluth was one of only three stops on the Secretary’s tour of Minnesota. The Secretary prioritized visiting the Solar Garden because it is an example of renewable energy that benefits local economies and reduces pollution. It is Duluth’s first community-owned, low-income solar project. Read more about the history of the Lincoln Park Solar Garden.
Solar energy was not the only topic of discussion. This visit also gave Ecolibrium3 a chance to highlight our work on geothermal research. With our partners at the City of Duluth and Ever-Green Energy, Ecolibrium3 received a grant from the Department of Energy earlier this year to study geothermal potential in our neighborhood. Like the Solar Garden, this project prioritizes the community through innovative partnerships. The proposed geothermal energy would use wastewater runoff from WLSSD to heat buildings along West Superior Street. Learn more about community geothermal planning.
This visit is an indicator that Duluth is becoming a clean energy leader. Ecolibrium3 is thrilled to be a part of the conversations, research, and work that is raising Duluth’s profile for renewable energy and climate solutions.
Join us in bringing more community climate solutions to Duluth!
