This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 216B.1691, subdivision 2b, to allow the commission to modify or delay the implementation of carbon-free standards under certain circumstances. The commission is required to evaluate various factors when considering such requests, including the impact on utility costs for customers, environmental costs, reliability of the electric system, technical concerns, and transmission constraints that may lead to lapses in utility service. Notably, the bill introduces the concept of "beneficial electrification," which refers to the substitution of electricity for fossil fuels under specific conditions that do not adversely affect cost savings, grid management, or environmental impacts.

Additionally, the bill specifies that the commission may only modify or delay implementation of certain obligations if significant rate impacts, reliability issues, or technical challenges are identified. It also mandates a two-year delay for specific circumstances beyond an electric utility's control that hinder compliance. The commission must consider the utility's efforts to manage transmission capacity and must prioritize electric generation from eligible energy technologies while evaluating requests for modifications or delays. Furthermore, utilities seeking modifications or delays must submit a compliance plan concurrently with their request.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 216B.1691