MPR News Chief Meteorologist Paul Huttner signs off

MPR News helps you turn down the noise and build shared understanding. Turn up your support for this public resource and keep trusted journalism accessible to all. 

Turn Up Your Support

A new public art display at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is aimed at challenging people to think about where their energy comes from. 

 installed motion sensors over certain tables in the airport's food court that correspond to a lighting display on the wall. 


When people sit at certain tables, parts of the display light up, such as washing machines and other appliances. She says it also shows people how the appliance is powered.


"I'm fascinated by the way people are tied to the world by small, everyday interactions, such as flipping on a light switch, turning on your computer," she said. "I think the more people are reminded of all that goes into these small, everyday actions, I hope that will help nudge people gradually toward a conservation mindset."

Birt's installation will be on display through 2019. The art is part of a partnership between Xcel Energy and the airport to improve energy efficiency. 


Xcel has worked with the airport to install a 3-megawatt solar array and has upgraded airport equipment and lighting, resulting in savings of 3 million kilowatt hours since 2013.


The airport has also upgraded to more efficient motors and drives for moving walkways and adopted LED lighting throughout the facility and parking ramps.

Arts and Culture

Environmental News

NewsPartners

Elizabeth Dunbar

Author

A new public art display at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is aimed at challenging people to think about where their energy comes from.

MSP airport art urges viewers to consider energy use

Go Deeper.

Like this?

News you can use in your inbox