Overview
MMPA’s Energy Education Program demonstrates the Agency’s commitment to support the communities we serve. Since the program was launched in 2010, it has reached over 20,000 elementary and high school students in MMPA member communities and project host communities.
Elementary Program
This unique educational experience consists of curriculum aligned with Minnesota 4th grade Science Standards and provides students with the opportunity to learn about renewable and non-renewable energy sources, electricity, and personal electricity use.
Participating schools receive a copy of the Energy Education Workbook which includes lessons, games, and activities and the opportunity to attend the Faribault Energy Park (FEP) Tour Event or host an in-school assembly. Both the FEP Tour Event and in-school assemblies are provided free of cost to schools and in partnership with the Science Museum of Minnesota.
The FEP Tour Event is held annually in May. Students rotate through three learning stations and receive a guided tour of FEP including close up views of the steam turbine, control room, solar panels, and wind turbine. Learning stations cover a variety of topics including an introduction to electricity, how a combined cycle power plant works, renewable and non-renewable energy sources, trade-offs of using different energy sources to generate electricity, personal electricity use, and energy conservation. Students are also treated to a pizza lunch.
For more information about Faribault Energy Park, click here.
In-School Assemblies are offered March-April as an alternative for schools unable to travel to Faribault. Assemblies feature a hands-on learning experience including an introduction to electricity, renewable and non-renewable energy sources, trade-offs of using different energy sources to generate electricity, personal electricity use, and energy conservation. Host schools have the choice of a pizza lunch or snack.
High School Program
The high school program was launched in 2018 and has been hosted at MMPA’s Shakopee Energy Park, Faribault Energy Park, and local high schools. This program encourages students to deepen their understanding of complex energy topics and provides insight into various energy-focused career opportunities. Students participate in activities that include: interactive presentations, hands-on learning activities, a facility tour, and a career panel. With support from the MMPA member utilities and Avant Energy, MMPA’s management partner, students can meet the people behind their power and learn about a wide variety of jobs in the energy industry.