The ECO Income-Eligible Working Group will reconvene June 26, 2025, 10 a.m. to noon, to explore how utility-administered, ratepayer-funded energy efficiency programs can better serve under-resourced households across Minnesota.
This multi-year effort — through December 2026 — will bring together a diverse range of stakeholders, including community-based organizations (CBOs), utilities, program implementers, housing advocates, and the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Further details can be found on the Income-Eligible Working Group website.
They are especially seeking CBOs from across Minnesota that work with income-eligible residents living in various housing types — including multifamily buildings, manufactured homes, rental housing, and shelters — who are passionate about energy equity, household savings, and quality of life improvements.
What to Expect
- The full work group will meet every other month, with a mix of virtual and in-person sessions.
- Participants will understand how their engagement can impact the ECO energy efficiency programs.
- EcoHealth Strategies, a climate consultancy with deep experience in convening equitable, community-centered energy dialogues, has been selected to facilitate the work group.
Why Participate in the ECO Work Group?
- Shared understanding: We break down technical energy terms into clear, accessible language — no expertise required.
- Centering community voices: Your lived experience and insights will help inform program design, utility engagement, and equitable policy recommendations.
- Collaborate: Build relationships with peers across the energy landscape — CBOs, advocates, utilities, and state agencies alike.
- Influence ECO outcomes: This group will focus on policy improvements to ensure programs truly meet community needs.
- Accountability measures: The ECO Working Group is a space for advocates to not only be heard by utilities, but directly influence ECO programs and implementation.
Please contact: theodora@ecohealthstrategies.
