This bill aims to establish and regulate pilot thermal energy network projects in Minnesota, enhancing the state's energy infrastructure and promoting sustainability. It amends existing statutes to include definitions for "thermal energy" and "thermal energy network," and mandates that utilities with over 800,000 customers include at least five pilot projects in their innovation plans, with a minimum of two projects located in disadvantaged communities. The bill also requires the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission to initiate proceedings to support the development of these networks, considering ownership, market structures, and public interest criteria.

Additionally, the bill mandates the commission to adopt rules for thermal energy networks and exempts approved networks from certain regulatory requirements. It calls for a study by the Department of Commerce to assess the optimal capacity of thermal energy networks by 2030, 2040, and 2050, focusing on technological advancements, greenhouse gas emissions reductions, public health impacts, job creation, and affordability for utility ratepayers. The findings and recommendations from this study are to be reported to legislative committees by the end of 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 216B.02, 216B.2427