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Breaking the Cycle: How Clean Energy is Winning, Even as the World Heats Up

If you’ve been paying attention to climate news, it might feel like we’re stuck in an endless loop: hotter summers, higher energy use, more fossil fuels burned, repeat. The latest report from the International Energy Agency confirmed that, yes, 2024 was the hottest year on record, and yes, extreme heat drove up electricity demand—most of which was met by burning more coal and natural gas.


Sounds bleak, right? But here’s what’s not getting enough attention: the systems that power our world are changing, and clean energy is growing faster than ever. Despite decades of fighting for climate justice, despite feeling like we’ve been shouting into the void—progress is happening. And it’s happening right here in Minnesota.


https://www.canarymedia.com/articles/clean-energy/chart-85-of-new-electricity-built-in-2023-was-clean-energy

The Renewable Tipping Point

For the first time, renewables and nuclear made up 80% of new electricity generation last year. That means that even though fossil fuels did increase, they are no longer the default. Clean energy is moving in, and it’s here to stay.


Here’s the real kicker: without technologies like solar, wind, and electric vehicles, global carbon emissions would have been 7% higher last year. Seven percent may not sound like much, but in climate terms, that’s huge. That’s millions of tons of CO₂ that never made it into the atmosphere—all because we’ve spent decades laying the groundwork for a cleaner future.


And in Minnesota? We’re seeing the shift up close. Last year, wind and solar officially surpassed coal for electricity generation in the U.S., a milestone that once seemed impossible. Here in the St. Croix Valley, businesses, cities, and everyday people are embracing clean energy like never before. The transition isn’t just happening—it’s accelerating.


Minnesota’s Momentum

Minnesota has long been a leader in clean energy, and the momentum keeps building:

  • Community Solar Power – Our state leads the nation in community solar programs, allowing households and businesses to tap into renewable energy without needing to install panels themselves. This is helping more people switch to clean power, no matter their income or living situation.

  • Electrifying Transportation – Cities across the state are rolling out electric buses, and public EV charging stations are popping up everywhere. Even Stillwater has its own EV-friendly initiatives, pushing toward a future where transportation doesn’t rely on fossil fuels.

  • Local Businesses Going Green – Through programs like the Greater Stillwater Area Green Business Directory, businesses are proving that sustainability and economic success go hand in hand. These local leaders are part of the movement making green business the norm.


Hope, Not Hopelessness

We won’t pretend that the fight is over. We’re not at the finish line yet. But when we zoom out and look at the bigger picture, one thing is clear: we are not losing.

Every solar panel installed, every coal plant retired, every green business certified—it all adds up. The systems that once seemed unshakable are shifting beneath our feet. The old way of doing things is crumbling, and a sustainable future isn’t just possible; it’s already happening.


So let’s not fall into despair. Let’s not buy into the idea that we’re powerless. The changes we’ve fought for are bearing fruit, and the next chapter is ours to write.

Here in the St. Croix Valley, in Minnesota, and across the world, we’re proving that clean energy isn’t a dream—it’s reality. And it’s only getting stronger.


Are you ready to be part of the change? Because it’s happening, with or without permission. Let’s make sure we’re driving it forward.


Take Action & Learn More

Minnesota has incredible resources to help individuals, businesses, and communities make the transition to clean energy. Here are a few ways you can get involved:


The shift is happening. Be part of it. 💚



 

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