The first certified passivehaus (a German-originated design which uses very, very little energy and circulates fresh air) is in Bemidji: http://waldseebiohaus.typepad.com/

If Fargo took the lead in promoting this kind of design (which can work anywhere), it would show the world that good energy design can happen anywhere. It doesn't require solar, goethermal, or photovoltaic energy to make it work--although you certainly can use that too.

It's not a matter IF people are going to renovate houses and pay for energy, it's HOW they will do so. This is one earth-friendly and resource-saving way to do so.