Powering the Poor Farm with the Sun

About a year ago, the Poor Farm Studios went solar. We’re not totally off-grid — that’s just not possible for a place like ours — but a large portion of our electricity now comes straight from the sun. Our 10-kWh solar array sits out in the orchard, soaking up light and quietly feeding clean energy into the daily rhythm of the Poor Farm.

We also installed a battery backup system that keeps the essentials running when the power goes out — things like the well pump and sump system that keep our water flowing and our basement dry. It’s a reassuring bit of independence when storms roll through southern Minnesota.

Electric Everything

Over the past year, we’ve been steadily shifting all of our systems and appliances to electric power. Our clothes dryer and water heater are now electric, and two of our four heating units use efficient heat-pump technology. Each upgrade is a small but meaningful move toward a future that feels lighter — both on our planet and on our power bill.

This transition has also made us more aware of the flow of energy through our daily life. Every flicked light switch or morning cup of coffee now carries a quiet reminder: the sun helped make this possible.

Art Created by Solar Power

At Poor Farm Studios, creativity has always been rooted in place — in the land, the weather, the changing light. Now, that connection extends to the energy that powers our work. The paintings, drawings, and community events that happen here are, quite literally, art created by solar power.

For us, it’s both practical and symbolic. Harnessing sunlight to power our creative life feels like an act of gratitude — and a gesture toward the future. It’s a reminder that sustainability and imagination can thrive together, grounded in the same soil, nourished by the same light that fills the orchard.

We are grateful to the Mankato Solar Store for the design and installation of our system. Check them out… https://mankatosolarstore.com/

Art Created by the Sun!

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