The Downtown Building Energy Transition (DBET) Phase 2 project is advancing sustainability efforts in Rochester by converting key public buildings, including City Hall, Mayo Civic Center, Art Center, Civic Theatre, and Library, to geothermal heating and cooling. This transformation will lower energy costs, reduce carbon footprints, and integrate these facilities into a networked geothermal system, adding 136 tons of additional capacity. Recently approved budget adjustments, supported by increased federal tax credits from the Inflation Reduction Act, will ensure the project remains financially viable without additional city funding. As part of its long-term vision, the project is also exploring options for a future Thermal Energy Network. DBET Phase 2 represents a significant step toward a more energy-efficient and resilient downtown, positioning Rochester as a leader in sustainability and clean energy innovation. For questions or more information, email Sustainability@RochesterMN.gov.
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Looking to make your home climate-friendly, healthier, and more comfortable? Join Electrify Everything FREE workshop series in the City of Rochester to explore the steps to home electrification and gain valuable insights on financial resources and planning assistance. The first workshop, Get Amped: The Basics of Electrifying Your Home, will be held on Thursday, April 3, 2025, from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm. Learn more about how to electrify your home at Electrify Everything Minnesota, and reserve your spot today!
Rochester residents can also take advantage of free guidance from Electrify Everything Advisors to complete home projects and line up resources. Additionally, contractor and developer workshops will offer up-to-date information on electrification options, incentives, and certifications for electrification retrofits or new construction. Explore the City Sustainability page for full details on upcoming workshop dates!
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Join the City of Rochester for Winter Salt Week, an initiative to raise awareness about the environmental impacts of salt use and promote chloride reduction strategies. From the Winter Salt Week Proclamation to the Smart Salting Workshop and Salt Monitoring Event at St. Mary’s University-Rochester on January 31, a variety of educational opportunities are available to help protect our water resources. For more details and to register, visit the Winter Salt Week website.
RPU, Minnesota Energy Resources, and the Center for Energy and Environment are offering Rochester homeowners the Neighborhood Energy Challenge (NEC), a full-service residential energy audit program. The program begins with a free "Saving Energy 101" workshop, followed by a home visit where energy auditors perform diagnostic tests, install energy-saving materials, and identify opportunities to improve comfort and reduce utility bills. For a one-time fee of $75, participants receive materials such as LED bulbs, pipe insulation, and faucet aerators, plus assistance with next steps, including access to contractors, financing, and utility rebates. Workshops are scheduled for February 1 and March 15, 2025, at the Northrop Community Education Center. Find out more here!
Through March, Christmas trees can be dropped off at the Olmsted County Compost Site any day of the week during daylight hours. There is no disposal fee. Stands, ornaments, and lights should be removed.
Wreaths, swags, boughs, and other evergreen decorations should be placed in a bag and thrown in your garbage to prevent the spread of an invasive species known as the Elongate Hemlock Scale—a pest that feeds on conifer trees. Do not compost.
In June 2024, Olmsted County kicked off a new food scrap drop-off program, making it easier than ever for residents to turn food waste into valuable compost. The program has been a hit, with over 90% of participants expressing support for continuing the program, which has now been extended through December 31, 2025! For just $25, you can grab a composting kit—available online or at 2122 Campus Drive SE in Rochester—packed with compostable bags, simple instructions, food waste reduction tips, and access to the drop-off site at the Olmsted County Recycling Center (OCRC). Open Tuesday through Saturday, the program has already transformed over 6,400 pounds of food scraps into compost, thanks to Green RU, a local licensed hauler. Join today and be part of a growing movement to reduce waste, protect the environment, and help shape the future of composting in Olmsted County!
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The City of Rochester is seeking $3 million in State of Minnesota funding to support a transformative solar and EV charging project at the Rochester International Airport (RST). The proposed solar installation is expected to generate 871,000 kWh annually—enough to power approximately half of the terminal building’s energy needs—while offsetting 824 metric tons of CO2 emissions each year. Additionally, the project includes installing 12 EV charging stalls, reconstructing a portion of the parking lot to enhance accessibility and pavement conditions, and creating a covered parking area for approximately 200 vehicles. This effort is part of a broader Airport Parking Improvement Project, which also includes a pending federal request to enhance terminal energy efficiency. For more information about the City’s 2025 Legislative Priorities, click here.
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The U.S. Department of Energy has updated its Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR) and Home Efficiency Rebates (HOMES) programs, enabling states like Minnesota to access full federal funding immediately, rather than in stages. This change is a major advancement for home electrification and energy efficiency, providing Minnesota with more resources sooner to support the adoption of energy-efficient appliances, improve home energy use, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The accelerated funding will help Minnesota and Rochester achieve their clean energy goals and make sustainable technologies more accessible to residents across the state.
This update was shared via email from the Minnesota Home Energy Rebates (HER) Advisory Group. Learn more about the advisory group and the timeline here and sign up for updates from the Advisory Group here.
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