Climate

Xcel Energy breaks ground on Sherco solar project
The 460-megawatt solar project will be the largest in the Upper Midwest, and is expected to produce electricity to power 100,000 homes. It’s part of Xcel’s plan to expand solar resources to replace power plants that run on fossil fuels and produce greenhouse gases.
More than half of the world's largest lakes are shrinking. Here's why that matters
Human actions have caused "significant declines" in the amount of water stored in 53 percent of the planet's largest lakes and reservoirs. Climate change and overconsumption are the primary drivers.
It's been a smoky week — what's the forecast ahead for air quality and wildfires?
An early start to wildfire season in Canada is pumping thick smoke plumes over Minnesota this week. So, what’s the outlook for our skies and air quality this summer? And what do we know about climate change and the frequency of wildfire smoke events in Minnesota?
State lawmakers agree to 'historic' environment and climate bill
Backers say this is a historic environment, energy and climate budget bill that will make transformative investments to help Minnesota combat climate change and move more aggressively toward a carbon-free economy.
A U of M initiative looks to create climate-informed health care professionals
A cadre of new nurses will be graduating in just some days from the University of Minnesota. And they’ll be trained to not only care for our human health but also the planet’s health.
Clean energy will require more power lines, but who should get to build them?
With more and more clean energy being produced, the need is growing for transmission lines to deliver all that energy to people. And the debate about who will get to build these lines is heating up with billions of dollars on the line.
Xcel gets $20 million for batteries to store solar, wind power
Breakthrough Energy Catalyst has agreed to commit $20 million in grant funding for the projects. The battery systems will allow Xcel to store renewable energy for later use, when the sun isn't shining or the wind isn't blowing.
The city of Minneapolis seeks input on new climate equity plan
With global calls for immediate climate action rising, what role can cities play in fighting climate change? The city of Minneapolis has been leading the way in answering this question as it looks to create a new climate action plan.