The 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 specific circumstances deemed to be in the public interest. The commission is required to consider various factors when evaluating requests for modifications or delays, including the impact on utility costs, 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 certain 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 mandates a two-year delay for specific circumstances beyond an electric utility's control that hinder compliance. The commission is also tasked with evaluating whether utilities have taken reasonable measures to address transmission capacity constraints and must prioritize electric generation from eligible energy technologies while considering the standards set by the section. Furthermore, electric utilities requesting modifications or delays must submit a compliance plan concurrently with their request.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 216B.1691