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The document outlines a 'funnel' process for wind resource assessment, moving from general wind maps to site-specific measurements. It emphasizes that wind energy production is approximately proportional to the square of wind speed, meaning small estimation errors can lead to significant financial losses. The guide details the use of wind power classes, the impact of wind shear on tower height selection, and the importance of analyzing year-to-year wind variability to satisfy lender requirements. It also provides specific siting advice regarding wind roses, turbine wake effects, and the use of set-backs or easements to protect wind access.

The document presents the first estimates of manufacturing subsector-specific energy use for the 10 member states of the Midwestern Governors Association (MGA). It aims to fill a data gap where public sources only provide general manufacturing data, thereby enabling policymakers to better identify energy efficiency potential and strategies that balance environmental and economic outcomes. The paper combines energy-use data with state-by-state policy summaries to highlight trends in industrial energy efficiency and cost competitiveness.

The report analyzes greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Utilizing the World Resources Institute's Climate Analysis Indicators Tool (CAIT-US), it examines all six Kyoto GHGs across the regional economy to overcome inconsistencies in previous state-level inventories. The analysis covers regional, sectoral, and state levels, assessing major emission sources, trends, and socioeconomic drivers to inform stakeholders on the Midwest's role in global climate change.

The report outlines strategies for U.S. companies to adopt on-site renewable energy, focusing on solar, wind, geothermal, and solar thermal technologies. It details various ownership and financing models—ranging from direct ownership to third-party power purchase agreements—and analyzes the associated financial incentives, operational risks, and corporate benefits such as cost hedging and brand enhancement.

The report concludes that the realistic potential for large-scale soil carbon sequestration is limited due to scientific uncertainties, practical implementation challenges, and nutrient requirements. It argues against treating soil carbon as a primary offset for emissions, suggesting instead a 'no-regrets' strategy where carbon sequestration is a cobenefit of boosting crop and pasture productivity, agroforestry, and soil restoration, particularly in nutrient-deficient regions like sub-Saharan Africa.

Xcel Energy's Certified Renewable Percentage (CRP) program enables customers to account for the renewable energy already present in the local grid mix by retiring Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) on their behalf. Launched in Wisconsin and Minnesota, with pending approval in Colorado, the program allows cities and corporations to combine grid-based renewable credits with voluntary purchases, such as the Renewable*Connect program, to reach goals of up to 100% renewable energy. The program's application varies by state based on tariff structures, and Xcel Energy provides calculator tools to help customers determine their specific renewable percentages.

The report analyzes renewable energy adoption among the world's largest corporations, finding that 59% of the Fortune 100 and 63% of the Global 100 have set greenhouse gas (GHG) or renewable energy targets. Companies are driven by cost reduction, risk hedging, and consumer demand, utilizing a mix of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), and on-site investments. Key barriers include the need for cost parity with fossil fuels, internal competition for capital, and inconsistent government policies. The report recommends that corporations set time-bound targets and that policymakers extend incentives like the U.S. Production Tax Credit (PTC) and authorize third-party PPAs to accelerate the transition.