Powering Minnesota’s Clean Energy Future: The Mission of MRES
Since 1978, the Minnesota Renewable Energy Society (MRES) has been a driving force in the state’s transition to clean energy. As a member-run nonprofit and the Minnesota chapter of the American Solar Energy Society (ASES), MRES promotes a sustainable, low-carbon future through education, community engagement, and real-world demonstrations of renewable energy solutions.
At Everlight Solar, we’re proud to support and spotlight organizations like MRES that are making a meaningful impact. Their work not only educates and empowers the public but also inspires the next generation of clean energy advocates—a mission that aligns closely with our own commitment to a brighter, more sustainable future.
Exciting MRES Initiatives
Solar Boat Regatta
One of MRES’s most engaging programs is the Solar Boat Regatta, a STEM-focused event where teams design, build, and race solar-powered boats. This competition provides students and participants with hands-on experience in renewable energy engineering and problem-solving. By integrating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into an exciting, real-world challenge, the Solar Boat Regatta fosters both teamwork and innovation while showcasing the capabilities of solar energy in transportation and beyond. The event not only sparks interest in sustainability among young minds but also serves as a platform for future engineers and environmental advocates to develop their skills and passion for clean energy.
Sustainability Tour
Another impactful initiative is the Sustainability Tour, an annual event showcasing homes and businesses utilizing solar technology and energy-efficient solutions. Attendees gain firsthand exposure to innovative renewable energy systems, seeing how homeowners and businesses have integrated solar panels, battery storage, and energy-efficient design into their properties. The tour not only educates visitors about sustainable living but also encourages wider adoption of renewable energy by demonstrating its practical benefits and long-term savings. By showcasing a variety of real-world applications, this event provides invaluable insights into how individuals and organizations can reduce their carbon footprint while making cost-effective energy choices. Everlight Solar has proudly had multiple home solar systems highlighted during Minnesota’s sustainability tour.
Solar United Neighbors Partnership
MRES also partners with Solar United Neighbors (SUN) to help Minnesota residents adopt solar energy through bulk purchasing. This initiative enables homeowners and businesses to collectively invest in solar panel installations, significantly reducing costs while increasing accessibility. By leveraging group purchasing power, MRES and SUN empower communities to transition toward clean energy solutions, helping more people affordably switch to solar while benefiting from long-term energy savings and reduced carbon footprints. The program also provides educational resources and expert guidance to ensure participants fully understand the benefits, installation process, and financial incentives associated with going solar.
MREs Educational Outreach Efforts
Speaker Series
At the core of MRES’s educational outreach is the Speaker Series, a program that brings industry professionals, policymakers, and sustainability advocates together with the community. These engaging events provide expert insights into the latest trends and technologies in renewable energy, helping to spark dialogue, share best practices, and make clean energy knowledge more accessible to all.
Solar Flare Newsletter
Additionally, the Solar Flare Newsletter is a key resource for anyone interested in clean energy, offering regular updates on policy shifts, technological breakthroughs, and funding opportunities. It also highlights community success stories and industry trends, helping MRES members stay informed, inspired, and ready to take action toward a more sustainable future.
Partners in Progress
At Everlight Solar, we know that a renewable future is only possible through collaboration, innovation, and community-led action. The work MRES does across Minnesota is a shining example of how passion, education, and grassroots engagement can move the needle toward real progress.
We’re honored to support and celebrate MRES—and to continue doing our part to make solar power a reality for more homes and businesses every day. If you’re ready to explore how solar can work for you, schedule your no-cost consultation with our team and take the first step toward a brighter, cleaner future.
