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Minnesota Farmers Union using solar energy

The Minnesota Farmers Union (MFU) is using solar energy to help power their new offices in St. Paul.

MFU Vice President Gary Wertish says the panels were installed on the roof of the building this spring.

“We were able to take advantage of the tax credits that accelerated depreciation, and also the 30 percent tax credit.”

He tells Brownfield the system is not only good for the environment, but makes economic sense too.

“It’s like on the farm, you’re always concerned about your bottom line; you need to show a profit at the end of the year to be able to stay in business.  It’s no different here (as) we’re paying utility bills.  The more we can lower energy costs, it’s easier to pay our bills.”

And Wertish anticipates more farmers in the state will be taking advantage of solar energy going forward.

“We’re in the Twin Cities (and) get our power from Excel Energy.  When we pay them a bill, part of that bill we’re paying to ourselves.  Instead of paying to a utility, we’re paying some of that production of our energy cost right back to ourselves.  Whether you’re on the farm or in town, anything you can do to lower your cost-we all win.”

Brownfield spoke to Wertish at the Minnesota Farmers Union open house Wednesday in St. Paul.