Dear neighbors,
It’s been another busy week in our community and at the Capitol. I joined the House Climate and Energy Committee for a tour of places that are using innovative methods to fight climate change. The committee members traveled to our community to visit Zeus Electric Chassis, a White Bear Township-based business that manufactures electric work trucks!
We visited Steamfitters Pipefitters Local 455 in St. Paul as well. Their building’s geothermal energy system, the first of its kind, emits much less carbon than other heating and cooling systems. It has reduced their A/C costs by 85 percent and is expected to pay for itself in six years. This groundbreaking technology could save Minnesotans money, create jobs, and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Next, we toured a HOM Furniture in Bloomington that has installed energy efficiency technology offered by 75f, a local business. This system helped the store reduce its energy footprint by 20 percent, saving them money and providing more comfort for employees and customers.
Our final stop was St. Thomas University in St. Paul. The university has a state-of-the-art micro grid research center, one of just a few facilities like it in the nation. Research conducted there could help make our energy grid more efficient and sustainable. The research center is going to expand soon, thanks to a grant legislators approved a few months ago.
Community Spotlight
Native American Heritage Event
The White Bear Lake Area Historical Society is holding an online event to explore the history and impact of Indigenous people in the White Bear Lake area. It will take place on Zoom on Monday, November 22 from 6 to 7 p.m. It’s a great chance to learn and an opportunity to honor Native American Heritage Month. You can find more information and register for the event here.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or feedback. You can email me at rep.ami.wazlawik@house.mn or call (651) 296-3018.
Sincerely,
Ami Wazlawik
State Representative