The City of Elk River has been a Metro CERT Affiliate since 2011 and a major player in community-scale energy in the Metro area. We asked Rebecca Haug, the City’s Environmental Administrator, to give some insight into the city’s work on energy projects, including Project Conserve, which we published a story about in March, and the upgrade to its Ice Arena , which the Department of Commerce wrote about in December.
MC = Metro CERT
RH = Rebecca Haug
MC: What have you enjoyed the most about working on community energy projects?
RH: Having the opportunity to bring innovative and creative ideas forward and sharing our success stories with citizens. I also enjoy helping others realize alternative options or methods that can make a project even more successful. Something else I enjoy about these types of projects is the mindset and behavior change you see in people when they understand the various energy efficient technologies that are available.
MC: How has being a Metro CERT Affiliate been valuable?
RH: The city of Elk River has seen value in being a Metro CERT Affiliate through support provided when seeking assistance with grants and then reading CERT’s articles about the projects the city has accomplished. Being a Metro CERT Affiliate also allows for networking opportunities in which the city can continue to learn about new energy efficient technologies and share our stories with others.
MC: What advice do you have for other cities or groups looking to get involved with community-scale clean energy?
RH: If a city or group is looking at getting involved with community-scale clean energy I would highly recommend finding good partners. Elk River’s Energy City program would not be a success without the cooperation and support from its partners. In addition to that, make sure to tell your story often and get support from your decision makers.
MC: What plans does Elk River have for future energy projects?
RH: The City of Elk River is in the process of updating its Vision Plan. Priority goals are innovation, community development, beautification, opportunities and planning and positioning. Action steps are being identified under each and many of them are related to energy projects. The Energy City Commissioners are revising their mission and vision along with setting short and long term goals to be aligned with the city’s goals. Some of the ideas include solar power for the concession stand at the 2014 Hockey Day event.
MC: Anything else you’d like to add about your experience?
RH: The staff at CERTs has been very supportive and helpful in promoting energy related projects in the City of Elk River and we are fortunate to have this partnership.
Thanks Rebecca!
For more information, check out the City of Elk River’s website at http://www.elkrivermn.gov/.
