Cooperative Energy Futures

9 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 9, ISSUE 6 municipalities, and utilities, it made it difficult for people to understand renewable energy and whether it’s something that’s accessible to them.” DenHerder-Thomas sees policy as the key to unlocking solar energy for the masses, especially in an industry that is not open to competition and controlled by monopolies. He acknowledges, “We need policies that support the development of renewable energy in a way that is broadly accessible, equitable, and benefits everyone in the community.” In this more equitable future, DenHerder-Thomas sees several positive developments which will help further entrench solar as a primary energy source for more Minnesotans. “In the next three to five years, we’ll see more business activity around solar and more equity in the industry,” he says. “I also foresee better integration of solar and batteries that will contribute to community resilience and the emergence of microgrids connected to district heating and cooling where neighborhoods can start managing their energy collectively. The biggest change we’ll see, however, is a transition in how people and communities understand solar and want to be a part of it.” PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n greenpenny www.greenpenny.com | 888-GPENNY0 (888-473-6690) Greenpenny, powered by Decorah Bank and Trust, is a virtual, carbon-neutral bank dedicated to financing a sustainable tomorrow. The bank offers solar financing in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri and Wisconsin; deposit products are available nationally. Money deposited in greenpenny is only used to fund clean energy and/or carbon-reducing projects.