When Riley Slimmer, facilities, safety and security coordinator for our Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) division, stepped into the role of project manager for the new State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC), he might have echoed the famous words from The Six Million Dollar Man: “We can rebuild it. We have the technology. We can make it better, stronger, faster.”  

Like Steve Austin, the show’s main character, Slimmer took on the mission not just to reconstruct, but to reimagine. The result: a purposefully built SEOC designed to meet today’s challenges and protect those who need it most.  

Slimmer won’t admit it, but it’s hard to argue that he didn’t channel a bit of Austin’s better, stronger, faster mindset, especially with the advanced energy efficiency systems he helped incorporate into the new SEOC.  

Among these systems is the geothermal heating and cooling system. Deep below the building, pipes called geothermal wells tap into the earth’s consistent underground temperature to help regulate the climate inside. In the winter, the system pulls heat from the ground; in summer, it returns excess heat back into the earth. This reduces dependence on electricity and keeps the building comfortable and functional. 

“During an emergency, reliable power isn’t just helpful, it’s critical to keeping Minnesotans safe,” said Slimmer. “That’s why the new SEOC was built to stay running no matter what, using smart, sustainable energy systems that protect both people and resources.” 

The SEOC also features a large solar panel system to generate electricity. Located in an open field for maximum exposure, the panels power essential equipment like lights, computers and communication systems. By generating renewable energy, the SEOC reduces its reliance on traditional power sources, saving money and minimizing environmental impact. 

Most importantly for Minnesotans, these systems make the SEOC more self-reliant during emergencies. If a storm knocks out the power, the building can stay operational for up to 72 hours using its solar energy and generators, ensuring that emergency coordination continues without interruption. 

“The renewable energy systems in the new SEOC do not just save taxpayer dollars through long-term energy efficiency, but they help make sure that backup power is always available for the most critical needs during a disaster,” said HSEM Director Allison Farole. “This building allows us to serve Minnesotans without interruption, even in the toughest conditions.” 

By combining geothermal and solar energy, we have used the technology to build the new SEOC smarter, stronger and greener than it was to better serve Minnesota residents.