In February 2020, Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (SMMPA) announced its SMMPA 2.0 strategic initiative. SMMPA 2.0 is a roadmap for the Agency that encompasses a host of initiatives that will shape the organization for many years to come. At its core – SMMPA 2.0 is focused on both environmental and economic sustainability. We are committed to significantly reducing our carbon footprint while maintaining reliable and affordable wholesale energy to our 17 member municipal utilities.
SMMPA 2.0 builds on a strong foundation that has been in place at SMMPA for over forty years. In our most recent sustainability report, we highlight actions we plan to take in the future and actions we are taking today.
Click here to download our brochure, which highlights some of the activities that are part of SMMPA’s overall commitment to sustainability under both definitions.
Our Changing
Generation portfolio
Since 2005, SMMPA has added signifcant wind and solar generation to its portfolio, while expanding its natural gas generation fleet and decreasing its coal generation.
REducing our carbon footprint
SMMPA met the State of Minnesota’s goal of a 15% reduction carbon emissions by 2015, and plans to
reduce carbon emissions by 90% in 2030 compared to 2005 levels.
emission reduction
efforts
The Agency has made significant progress on reducing emissions through a number of different initiatives – all of which improve air quality.
electric vehicles
SMMPA member municipal utilities commit to establishing an electric vehicle (EV) charging network to help facilitate the transition to EVs in Greater Minnesota.
protecting pollinators
By working with our member communities, the Agency has established over 45 Monarch Butterfly habitats to help ensure the ongoing survival of the butterfly.
community Impact
Whether it be through local employment, involvement in projects in our member communities, or other means, SMMPA is proud to have positive community impact.
recycling
SMMPA is committed to recycling, both at an office-level and in its larger-scale construction efforts. For example, more than 600 tons of scrap steel was recycled during the Fairmont Energy Station construction in 2011.
SMMPA’s Renewable Generation
Below is a 7-day trend of the output of our renewable generation. Renewable resources currently include wind power, solar generation, landfill gas-to-electricity, and a waste-to-energy resource.