Tweite Community Solar Garden

Tweite Community Solar Garden

The Tweite Family has cared for their land in Byron, Minnesota, for more than 114 years. In November 2020, they added a new chapter to its history with a 1,411-kilowatt community solar project. This solar array provides clean energy to local subscribers and 25 years of reliable income for the family.

For 35 years, the family operated a successful agritourism business on the property. When they decided to close that chapter, solar energy offered a way to repurpose their land without selling it. “Each generation finds ways to adapt to their time,” said Tom Tweite, who led the project. “That’s where we are with solar—it fit perfectly into our family’s long-term plans.”

The community solar array now provides clean energy access to homes and businesses nearby while giving the Tweite Family a steady financial return. Partnering with New Energy Equity ensured a smooth and stress-free process. “New Energy Equity went above and beyond,” Tom shared. “It's not their first rodeo. They’ve done this time and time again.”

The family also values the simplicity and sustainability of solar energy. “We don’t have to worry about chemical drift from farming or issues with tenants who aren't being good stewards of the land,” said Tom. “It’s been a clean, simple solution that makes sense for us.”

The Tweite Community Solar Garden shows how families can preserve their land’s legacy while creating a lasting impact. With New Energy Equity’s expertise, the Tweite Family turned their vision into reality and brought renewable energy to their community.