Planning for Energy Demand
During my Energy & Environment Committee meeting, we discussed the resurgence of interest in developing nuclear power generation. Specifically, we are addressing the current focus on creating a carbon-free energy future while ensuring power is available to meet our future needs. In a way, this presentation placed the cart ahead of the horse. First, we need to discuss the need to define the demand for future energy and where the changes are occurring around Minnesota, our regional partners, and the entire country. As you know, the largest single change in demand is the forecast power consumption of future Artificial Intelligence (AI) data centers. Thus, I suggested the development of a resolution to address all options for policy development relative to our future energy needs and prioritize how we will respond to those needs. Based on the long lead time required to build additional electrical generation capacity, we must forecast our future needs now.
AI, Mobile Devices, Etc.
In addition to future energy needs, we attended sessions on many more topics. One global session included the topic of Artificial Intelligence (AI), screen time, mobile devices, and our society. Here I learned an interesting new term called “phubbing” which is a combination of “phone” and “snubbing”. For example, if I happened to be reading a book to my granddaughter and simultaneously received a text on my phone which person in this situation takes priority? Is it the person sending me the text or my granddaughter? If I stop reading the book and look at my text, I commit the act of snubbing my granddaughter. Or, as the term implies, I am “phubbing” my granddaughter. While unintentional, this act can seriously impact my long term social relationship with my granddaughter. Think about it and share your thoughts.
Coffee with Tom
Please feel free to join me for Coffee with Tom on August 1st at the Owatonna Chamber of Commerce from 12:00pm-1:00pm and at the Waseca Chamber of Commerce on August 8th, 2025 from 12:00pm-1:00pm. As a reminder, the Waseca Chamber of Commerce is now located in the Suburban Furniture building, 105 22nd Ave NE, Suite A, Waseca, MN 56093.
Shoutouts!
I want to shoutout Mr. Greg Kruschke, Owatonna's Community Development Planner. Mr. Kruschke was recognized for Excellence in Service by the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities (CGMC). We are very grateful for his work to help Greater Minnesota and District 19B! Thank you, Greg.
I would also like to recognize Kris Busse, the outgoing City Administrator of Owatonna, as she was given the Bob Filson Award for Distinguished Rural Leadership. During her time with the city of Owatonna, Kris has diligently served its residents and taken note of important issues in the area. Thank you for your many years of dedicated service, Kris.
|
