Saint Paul — In recognition of Earth Hour, the exterior lights of the Minnesota State Capitol will be turned off from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 25 as part of the City of St. Paul's recognition of Earth Hour. All pedestrian and security lighting will remain lit during this time.

"We are pleased to join the City of Saint Paul for a sixth year in highlight the importance of energy conservation and stewardship," said Administration Commissioner Matt Massman. "Participating in the Earth Hour event is a great opportunity for the State to demonstrate its commitment to sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint."

The Department of Administration has taken multiple steps to reduce energy usage and introduce sustainable operations in state buildings. Since 2008, energy consumption at the State Capitol Complex has been decreased by 25 percent.

In September, the State of Minnesota created a new partnership with Xcel Energy called the Renewable*Connect Government Pilot Program. The new initiative will ensure that 33 percent of the base energy used at the State Capitol Complex comes from renewable sources.

In addition, the Department of Administration's Office of Enterprise Sustainability was created to ensure that all state buildings are energy efficient, that the state fleet is fuel efficient, and that sustainability is factored into purchasing and contracting decisions.

For more information about Earth Hour and other participating buildings in Saint Paul, visit Saint Paul's Earth Hour webpage at: www.stpaul.gov/earthhour.

Update: See the video of the Capitol going dark in recognition of Earth Hour at: https://youtu.be/muyIHwTllNQ