The Metropolitan Council is pleased to announce it has secured a $2.37 million federal tax refund for the North Loop Garage, Metro Transit's most energy-efficient facility to date.
The refund was issued through the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, considered one of the most significant climate legislation efforts in U.S. history. The legislation provided financial incentives to governments and organizations for investing in energy-efficient buildings.
“It’s an honor to be recognized for our hard work on environmental sustainability,” Met Council Chair Charlie Zelle said. “It’s important to lead by example by reducing our contributions to greenhouse gas emissions and making our services and facilities resilient to the impact of climate change. This validates we are doing the right work.”
Located near the intersection of 7th Street and Olson Memorial Highway, the $125 million Metro Transit facility opened in 2023 with multiple sustainable design elements, including solar collector walls that pre-heat incoming air for the heating system, geothermal heating and cooling infrastructure, and comprehensive LED lighting. Together, the improvements reduce the facility's heating requirements by 10 percent.
"Given our planning responsibilities, and as one of the state’s largest energy users and owners of the largest public vehicle fleet, we must be a leader in reducing emissions and improving resiliency across the region,” said Peter Lindstrom, Chair of the Met Council's Environment Committee. “Receiving this refund showcases Metro Transit's vision for a more sustainable workplace and helps publicize this opportunity for other public and non-profit entities."
As part of its Climate Action Work Plan, the Met Council has been adapting its operations and infrastructure to the impacts of climate change. This includes:
- Incorporating adaptation measures into facility and services planning, design, construction, operations, and maintenance
- Expanding staffing and training related to climate work
- Identifying opportunities to install and maintain sustainable landscapes on Met Council property
Contact: Laura Baenen, [email protected]