District Energy St. Paul began serving customers in September 1983 with the first connection to the George Latimer Central Library. Intended to be a model for the nation, District Energy was one of the first district heating systems to transition from steam to hot water, and today is one of the most advanced district energy systems in North America, incorporating combined-heat and power, biomass, solar thermal, and thermal storage. For four decades, District Energy has been at the heart of the community, providing reliable and sustainable heating and cooling solutions. As we look to our future, thanks to all our supporters, partners, and team members for being a part of this incredible journey.
Highlights
District Energy St. Paul and Ever-Green Energy had the honor of being acknowledged by US Congresswoman Betty McCollum for their 40th and 25th anniversaries.
Read her full comments:
Honoring Ever-Green Energy and District Energy St. Paul
September 20, 2023
Former Saint Paul mayor, George Latimer, was a visionary leader who championed the development of District Energy St. Paul four decades ago. Mayor Latimer shares his remarkable journey working alongside community leaders to make the system a reality and the enduring passion and pride he holds for this groundbreaking system to this day.
Former Saint Paul Mayor George Latimer Reflects on 40 Years of District Energy
District Energy St. Paul welcomed local journalists and media representatives into the downtown plant to walk through the history and future plans for the system. Ken Smith, President and CEO, and Chris Peterson, Director of Production, provided a tour introducing the history and technologies that make the system what it is today. In 2019, the operations successfully phased out coal and remains committed to ongoing decarbonization and environmental improvements. This includes the exploration of innovative technologies and the initiation of pilot programs with alternative fuels, all aimed at further reducing the system’s environmental impact.
Read more about District Energy St Paul’s history and future plans for innovation:
District Energy marks 40 years in St. Paul with new hydrogen generator
Pioneer Press, September 26, 2023
District Energy St. Paul is proud to have four employees who have worked here since the beginning, sharing their 40-year anniversaries with the company this year.
Read more about District Energy Plant Superintendent Ron Anderson’s story:
Meet the Patrick Henry grad who grew up with the company that powers downtown St. Paul
Star Tribune, June 28, 2023