In January, the Minnesota Senate and Utilities Finance and Policy Committee held public hearings in Rochester and Minnetrista to gather feedback on legislation designed to modernize Minnesota’s energy resources. The legislation, known as ‘Clean Energy First’, aims to prioritize clean energy as the state plans its future energy needs. 

“We know that most fossil fuel-powered plants will be retired or replaced in the next two decades – representing more than 40 percent of our current capacity. As we plan for Minnesota’s future energy needs, prioritizing clean energy makes sense if we can do it in a way that is reliable and affordable for consumers,” said Senator David Osmek (R-Mound), chair of the Senate Energy and Utilities Finance and Policy Committee. “This isn’t a mandate; mandates only drive up cost – and major players like Xcel Energy are already heading in the direction of clean energy. Rather, this approach accomplishes the transition to clean energy through careful resource planning and coordination. An all-of-the-above approach to clean energy ensures a reliable grid and allows the trend of technology driving innovation in the energy sector to continue as we plan for our long-term energy future.”

‘Clean Energy First’ legislation is designed to make sure Minnesota utilities prioritize clean technology in their future plans if the energy is deemed reliable and affordable. The bill directs the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to consider whether the long-term plans submitted by utilities are in the public interest, including affordability and reliability. Nuclear, solar, wind, hydropower, carbon sequestration, and municipal solid waste are classified as clean technologies in the legislation.

Senator Osmek continued: “Having heard a lot of great feedback from stakeholders representing a variety of interests, we’ll take that feedback back to St. Paul as we consider this during the legislative session.”

The ‘Clean Energy First’ legislation is expected to be introduced near the start of the 2020 legislative session, which begins on February 11.