Minnesota Wind Farm and Solar Projects
This website is an interactive map from the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission that displays wind farms, solar projects, battery storage sites, and transmission lines across Minnesota. Users can click on projects to see details such as energy capacity (MW), project status (permitted, operating, etc.), and developer information. The map allows layers to be turned on and off, helping students visualize where renewable energy infrastructure is located and how it connects to the electric grid. It uses real-world data, giving students an authentic look at how energy systems are built and managed.
Duration
Variable
Subject
ENR (Energy and Natural Resource)
Grade
Multi-Grade
Key topic
Renewable Energy - Solar
AFNR - Agriculture, food and natural resources
MN.PST.05.01 - Power Systems Technology
Research and categorize computer technologies used to solve problems and increase efficiency in AFNR systems.
Environmental policy
MN.NRES.06.01 - Natural Resources and Environmental Systems
Distinguish between the types of laws associated with environmental service systems.
Earth and space science
MN.HS-ESS3-2 - Earth and Human Activity
Evaluate competing design solutions for developing, managing, and utilizing energy and mineral resources based on cost-benefit ratios
How to use
This tool supports inquiry-based learning in science, agriculture, geography, engineering, and civics. Students can analyze patterns in where renewable energy is developed, explore relationships between energy, land use, and communities, and discuss trade-offs involved in infrastructure decisions. It works well for NGSS connections related to natural resources, human impacts, and engineering design, and can be used for data literacy practice, local case studies, or energy planning scenarios.