‘Sota Grown has a right to brag about local produce that’s always fresh and always growing. Since it uses soil-less indoor farming, it can create a controlled environment to cultivate a variety of crops all year long. This innovative method eliminates the variables of weather and seasons, which are the two biggest disadvantages for Minnesotan farmers and the state’s agriculture industry.
‘Sota Grown’s accomplished techniques demonstrate how a community can truly connect when they share their knowledge and work together.
Nutrient-rich produce
Typically, leafy greens travel an average of 2,000 miles before reaching a store—losing more nutritional value with each passing day. Now, produce can go from farm to table in hours instead of days.
Year-round harvest
Fresh produce that grows even during Minnesota winters. This especially benefits communities that are located in Federally Designated Food Desert Areas, which means there is a lack of access to affordable healthy foods.
Clean farming
The controlled environment enhances food safety and reduces risk for water contamination. Plus, it’s free of pesticides and fertilizers.
Greater accessibility
Produce is distributed throughout the community—in partnership with local food access initiatives—to provide healthy food options to more than 600 people each month.
Sustainability
The pods use electricity in a way that benefits the environment by reducing the amount of water used and carbon emissions generated.
Educational Opportunity
As part of a nationwide research project in collaboration with EPRI, data will be collected for research and development of load planning and rate design for this growing industry.
Partnering with ‘Sota Grown is just one of the many ways EnergyWise MN is helping to support our community and our futures.
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