Rural Renewable Energy and Transmission Projects - Powering the Midwest!

Rise Up

Get ready to harness the power of renewable energy as Season 4 Episode 5 of MREA's Rise Up podcast takes you on a journey through the world of large-scale wind, solar, and transmission projects in the Midwest. Join our host Nick Hylla, as he sits down with esteemed guest Peder Mewis, a driving force behind rural renewable energy development in the Midwest and Plains states.

In this episode, we'll explore the vast opportunities and unique challenges that arise in the pursuit of a sustainable energy future. Peder, with his extensive experience working with the Clean Grid Alliance, shares invaluable insights on the regulatory landscape, financing options, and effective community engagement strategies that pave the way for success.

Discover the immense potential for wind and solar power generation in the Midwest and learn how these sources can contribute to a resilient and clean grid. Dive deep into the intricacies of large-scale projects, as Peder uncovers the barriers and complexities that must be overcome for their implementation.

But it doesn't stop there. Join the conversation as we explore the vital role of collaboration and partnership between utilities, policymakers, local communities, and clean energy advocates. Peder sheds light on how these partnerships can drive renewable energy development forward, fostering a sustainable and prosperous future for the region.

By the end of this enlightening episode, you'll walk away with a comprehensive understanding of the Midwest's renewable energy landscape. Gain the knowledge and inspiration you need to actively participate in the renewable energy transition and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future for the Midwest and beyond. Don't miss this empowering episode of MREA's Rise Up Podcast!

Host: Nick Hylla, MREA Executive Director

Guest: Peder Mewis, Regional Policy Manager - ND, SD, WI, MI, Clean Grid Alliance

-Show notes – timestamps we want to include from the episode from worthwhile subjects

0:20 – Nick introduces energy transmission needs and resources in the Midwest

2:13 – Decarbonization goals

3:14 - Local opposition groups

8:08 – Peder's experience at Clean Grid Alliance

9:17 – Issues facing renewable integration into the grid

11:24 – The importance of transmission to renewable energy

15:09 – The role of battery storage in balancing the grid

17:41 – Steps necessary to build a new transmission project

20:53 – Federal CHIPs and Bipartisan Infrastructure act impact on transmission

23:14 – Transmission costs

25:37 – Non transmission alternatives

27:43 – Electrification and EVs

29:51 – Intermittency of renewable energy on the grid

33:17 – Local opposition to large scale renewables and transmission

39:12 - Policy priorities to leverage Inflation Reduction Act funding

44:04 – Best model for balancing authority in the Midwest

47:34 – The importance of building relationships

"I'm very confident that the future looks good. And, you know, when I retire from this industry, it'll be fun to see how far we've come with the technology around renewable energy resources and all these things. So I do feel good, but it's hard work and, you know, it's a lot of political capital, it's a lot of emotional capital. But as I always say, the most important thing is relationships. And everybody needs to work together, build those strong relationships, build that trust. And if you can do that, you can get anything done." - Peder Mewis

Live Event at The Energy Fair: Catch Peder at his Rise Up Live Event with host Nick Hylla for a live podcast panel during The Energy Fair! Hear from the guests of Season 4, followed by a Q&A session. Tickets are on sale now at theenergyfair.org/tickets.