Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University (LCOOU) has announced plans for a comprehensive renewable energy and agricultural infrastructure project designed to support sustainable food production, hands-on education, and long-term energy resilience at the university's farm site. The project includes a large-scale solar energy system, battery storage, greenhouse infrastructure support, and energy-efficient climate control systems.
Solar Infrastructure Project Kickoff
Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University Farm in partnership with Carlson Electric
Tuesday, November 10, 2026
9:00 am
The proposed project centers on a 32.48-kilowatt solar energy system featuring 56 high-efficiency solar panels, advanced hybrid inverter technology, and more than 86 kWh of battery storage, helping offset approximately 89% of the farm site's annual electricity consumption while supporting year-round agricultural operations. The system is projected to generate approximately 44,281 kilowatt-hours of clean energy annually.
In addition to renewable energy generation, the project includes electrical infrastructure upgrades to support greenhouses, hoop houses, classroom and office facilities, outdoor agricultural workspaces, irrigation equipment, and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. Planned improvements include cold-climate heat pumps for greenhouse operations, a solar-powered water pumping system, expanded electrical service, and installation of interior and exterior lighting and power distribution.
"This project represents an investment in both sustainability and education," said Jeromy Cowell, Farm Director at Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University. "By integrating renewable energy with agricultural learning opportunities, we are creating a model that supports environmental stewardship, food sovereignty, workforce development, and long-term operational resilience."
According to project estimates, the solar system is expected to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 29 tons annually, delivering environmental benefits equivalent to planting thousands of trees over the system's lifetime while significantly reducing reliance on conventional energy sources.
The project also includes a backup power system to enhance reliability and continuity of farm operations during power outages, ensuring critical agricultural infrastructure remains operational throughout the year.
With a total project investment of approximately $270,000, the initiative leverages available renewable energy incentives to reduce net costs while helping position the university for long-term energy savings and sustainability goals. Project costs are supported by a grant from the Indigenous Power & Light Fund and Federal Grants.
The LCOOU Extension Industrial Training and Assessment Center (ITAC) students will be assisting Carlson Electric in the construction of the system as part of their training to obtain their NABCEP PV Solar credentials to become professional renewable energy installers and designers. The LCOOU ITAC program is still accepting students (minimum age requirement is that they have to at least be enrolled in high school).
The farm site improvements align with Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University's commitment to culturally informed education, environmental responsibility, and community-focused economic development. By combining renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and experiential learning opportunities, the project will serve as a resource for students, tribal members, and community partners for years to come.
For more information, contact Jeromy Cowell, LCOOU Farm Director, at 715-634-4790 ext. 133.