If your community is doing work on energy conservation, energy efficiency, and renewable energy and would like to be recognized for it, submit your initiatives to the new Minnesota Clean Energy Community Awards!
The Clean Energy Community Awards are an acknowledgment of the work done by Minnesota communities to further the state’s clean energy goals by implementing programs, policies, and technologies that encourage energy efficiency, conservation, and renewable energy generation. Award recipients will receive many benefits, including recognition at high profile public events, media exposure, achievement awards, and community signage.
Benefits
- Applicant communities will be invited to attend an event at the Eco Experience at the Minnesota State Fair, where award finalists will be announced.
- Finalist communities (up to 10) will have their initiatives featured as part of an exhibit at the Eco Experience. Additionally, they will receive admission tickets to the Fair to attend the announcement event.
- Award recipient communities (up to 5) will receive:
- A stipend to send community members to attend a celebratory event and press conference during Energy Awareness Month in October.
- Statewide media coverage including press packets for distribution to local media outlets.
- Achievement Award suitable for public display.
- Signage designating “Clean Energy Community” for display on public property or building.
- Web recognition on Commerce website.
Award Criteria
Successful Clean Energy Community applicants will have implemented programs that satisfy a majority (or demonstrate intense efforts in one or more) of the following criteria:
- Policy development, such as incorporation of energy goals in a community’s Comprehensive, Sustainability, Zoning, or Climate Action Plans that serve to provide measurable clean energy achievements in public buildings/infrastructure and/or private businesses/residences.
- Community partnerships and stakeholder education with local business/industry/agriculture, nonprofits, utilities, or residents to meet energy goals.
- Expansion of energy efficiency and/or renewable energy opportunities to historically underserved communities.
- Innovation that is replicable by Minnesota communities and that serves to advance Minnesota’s clean energy goals.
Application Process
To apply to be a Minnesota Clean Energy Community, fill out the application form for each initiative you’d like to share no later than July 15, 2016.
