Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA)

The MREA promotes renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable living through education and demonstration.

Based in Custer, Wisconsin, the MREA has been working since 1990 to protect and improve the environment by educating the public about appropriate use of natural resources to meet our energy needs. The MREA provides education and training experiences to the broadest possible audience to help power the Midwest Energy Transition.

Our programs and services respond to evolving energy issues and empower people to make wise lifestyle choices. We share our success with like-minded organizations, recognizing that we are stronger when we all work together towards our common goals. Together with partners around the Midwest, we work to expand renewable energy adoption through innovative programs, renewable energy training, and educational events. We are currently achieving our mission through four initiatives:    

1) Grow Solar is a coordinated effort among Midwest municipalities and organizations to build an open and advantageous solar market that provides long-term benefits to communities. From 2013-2022, MREA has hosted over 60 group buys in six midwestern states, educating over 13,500 people with over 2,700 properties adding solar generating over 20MWs. Since 2018, the MREA has hosted three programs in Minnesota, educating over 650 people with 186 properties adding solar generating over 1,350 kW. This includes one non-profit installing solar from our Rise Up Midwest campaign, Avenues for Youth. https://www.growsolar.org/twin-cities/sign-up/

2) Through a vision and generous support from the Couillard Solar Foundation, MREA’s Solar on Schools initiative provides a range of free resources to Wisconsin K-12 schools interested in pursuing a solar photovoltaic system. The program boldly aims to help 100 Wisconsin schools realize the financial, educational, and community benefits of going solar. 

3) The MREA hosts professional training in a variety of formats, including 100% online courses, for all knowledge levels throughout the year. Experts in the renewable energy field instruct participants from varied backgrounds including homeowners, builders, educators, architects, engineers, contractors, electrical inspectors, and more. 

4) The Energy Fair is the longest-running energy education event in the nation and attracts an average of 9,000+ attendees to learn from experts in the fields of sustainability, energy, and community action. The 33rd Annual Energy Fair will take place June 21-23, 2024, in Custer, WI. 

To learn more, visit www.theenergyfair.org  Help us continue pursuing our mission of educating and empowering people to expand the possibilities for solar across the Midwest by donating today!