09-20-2023 ECC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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6.3 Field Trip Opportunities Chair Iverson has been working on a list of potential energy-related tours for the Commission and any interested Council members. They include the Sherco Solar plants in Becker, Big Lake, and Clear Lake; the Monticello Nuclear Plant, the Becker Coal Fired Power Plant, and the Excel Energy Center in St. Paul. Chair Iverson will find out what information they require for tours, including background checks. 6.4 Other Commission Updates Visitor Leo Dombrovski asked how the Commission could encourage residents to participate in more conservation efforts. He mentioned that the weekly Elk River newsletter is good, but how many people take the time to read it. The group agreed that increasing public awareness of energy efficient practices is needed. Venues and outreach activity will be discussed at a future meeting. Suzanne shared the City of Rosemont’s survey on Energy/environmental Commissions. Many of the cities focus on pollinator gardens, sustainability, recycling, and environmental education. She also shared an article on the GRE Cambridge gas plant receiving approval from the Public Utilities Commission to burn diesel as a backup when natural gas is not available. In the past, Chair Iverson and Tom Sagstetter reviewed the cost of transitioning residents to 100% renewable energy (Clean Energy Choice program). Customers can elect to have 50%, 75%, or 100% of their electricity from renewable sources for only $1 - $3/month. Iverson suggested bringing this to Council to inquire if the city would consider offering financial assistance to residents. Elk River has ~ 12,000 accounts, which would result in city aid of $12,000 - $36,000/per month. The Commission will gain more information on this issue when Sara is at the next meeting. Chair Iverson shared information on potential site visits to energy generation/storage venues in the area. He is in contact with representatives for the Xcel Energy Becker/Big Lake solar power/storage plant, and the Iron Air Battery plant; the Monticello nuclear plant, Sherco Coal 1, 2 & 3; and the coal fired generating plan in Becker. He also expressed interest in touring the GRE facility in Maple Grove. Commissioner Peterson offered to arrange that visit. There being no further business, Commissioner Grupa moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Commissioner Miller. The meeting was adjourned at 9:31am. Suzanne M. Fischer 11.15.2023 Suzanne M. Fischer Date Environmental Services/Special Projects Director 2