MPR News Digest - August 27, 2025

MINNEAPOLIS - Minnesota regulators sign off on first stand-alone battery storage system Minnesota’s Public Utilities Commission unanimously approved the state’s inaugural stand-alone battery energy storage project, aimed at bolstering grid reliability and integrating higher levels of renewable generation. The system, slated for deployment by 2027, will store excess wind and solar power during off-peak hours and discharge it during peak demand periods, potentially cutting costs for ratepayers and reducing reliance on fossil-fueled peaker plants.

SOUTH MINNEAPOLIS - Police contain shooter at Catholic church and school Authorities confirmed that the armed suspect who opened fire Wednesday morning at Annunciation Church and the adjacent school on West 54th Street has been contained. Initial reports indicate multiple victims, with several transported to area hospitals; no further threats are believed to remain. Investigators are on scene securing the building and canvassing witnesses as the motive remains under review.

MINNEAPOLIS - UMN staff press for higher wages in contract talks Workers at the University of Minnesota rallied outside campus administrative offices today, demanding improved pay and benefits during ongoing contract negotiations. Represented by AFSCME Local 3800, union members cite rising living costs and increased workloads as key concerns. The negotiations mark the first comprehensive contract talks since 2019, with mediators scheduled to reconvene later this week.

MINNEAPOLIS - Survey finds Minnesotans wary of lake and river health A new University of Minnesota-conducted poll reveals that 78 percent of state residents are concerned about the deteriorating health of local lakes and rivers, citing agricultural runoff and climate impacts as top threats. The survey, encompassing 1,200 respondents, underscores broad support for increased funding for water quality monitoring and treatment initiatives across the state.