Energy
Photo Credit: Chappy Achen
Where Our Energy Comes From
Summary: Wind increased to 30% in 2022 and surpassed nuclear as the highest source of energy in Red Wing. Gas decreased more than 8% and is now our fifth-highest source of energy.
Definitions: Biomass is renewable organic matter that comes from plants and animals and can be burned for energy. Hydo is harnessing water power for energy.
Source: Xcel Energy Community Report, 2023
Who is Responsible for Local Carbon Emissions Through Electricity
Summary: Red Wing’s 144 industries produce almost 40% of all the carbon emissions locally. Our 989 commercial businesses contribute 27% collectively, and our 7,336 residential households contribute 34%. Streetlights are a small 0.2%.
Details: Carbon emissions are the amount of carbon dioxide emitted into the air from natural and human sources, including from the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas. For details on other definitions and information, go to “About the Data” at the bottom of this page and click on the Xcel Energy Community Report.
Source: Xcel Energy Community Report, 2022
Number of Solar Garden Subscriptions
Summary: The number of residential properties that now subscribe to solar gardens has risen 47% between 2020 and 2022. The number of business subscriptions has stayed relatively flat at near 100.
Details: A solar garden can be defined as a large array of solar panels that collects the sun’s energy and supplies electricity to the grid, providing electricity to participating subscribers.
Source: Xcel Energy Community Report, 2022