Highlights from GMHF’s Second Energy Development Convening

On February 11, 2026, GMHF hosted our second Energy Development Convening. The event gathered affordable housing developers, energy practitioners, public agencies, and financial partners to learn about practical strategies for integrating geothermal and other clean energy solutions into housing projects. We heard directly from state leaders on Minnesota’s climate priorities, learned alongside national technical experts, and explored how GMHF’s Energy Loan Fund can help developers advance high‑performance, resilient affordable housing. Here is a look back at the conversations and insights from the day:

• The morning began with presentations from Minnesota Housing, Minnesota Commerce, and the Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority (MnCIFA) — each offering valuable context about the state’s decarbonization priorities and the role affordable housing plays in achieving them. Building on the policy context, the convening shifted toward practical solutions. One of the core goals of this convening was to deepen shared understanding of geothermal systems and their rapidly expanding role in affordable housing. GMHF’s partner, Community Sustainability Partners, walked through how geothermal heat pump systems work, why they tend to outperform air‑source systems in cold climates, and how recent federal policy changes have made geothermal far more financially feasible.
• Wellington Management shared a case study from the Native American Community Clinic project. A community‑driven redevelopment featuring a health clinic and affordable housing, this six‑story, net‑zero‑ready building illustrates what happens when envelope improvements, geothermal HVAC, solar energy, and all‑electric systems work together. They also shared key lessons learned with the other developers in the room.
• Geothermal experts Darcy Solutions, Ever‑Green Energy, and Midwest Mechanical Solutions emphasized that success with geothermal requires strong predevelopment discipline: early modeling and scoping, system designs that support investment tax credit optimization, planning for long‑term system performance and operations, and clear roles for contractors, owners, and service partners. Participants engaged in candid discussions about real‑world challenges and solutions, from drilling logistics to commissioning to tenant comfort.

Want to learn more about our energy work? Reach out to Peter Ebnet, GMHF’s Director of Policy & Program Development.