This bill proposes significant changes to Minnesota's energy policies by repealing the renewable development account and introducing a solar energy production incentive program, which will be in effect until December 31, 2025. The program will be managed by the utility and later by the commissioner of commerce, with allocated funding for solar energy production from 2021 to 2025, including provisions for low-income solar energy systems. Additionally, a new "Made in Minnesota" solar energy production incentive account is established, detailing the management and appropriation of funds. The bill also mandates the refund of any remaining funds in the renewable development account to the utility's electric service customers upon the bill's effective date.

Moreover, the bill outlines the management and funding of renewable energy initiatives, including the establishment of a renewable development account advisory group to evaluate project proposals and recommend expenditures. It introduces a rebate program for solar photovoltaic modules manufactured in Minnesota and sets criteria for determining the combined nameplate capacity of wind energy conversion systems under common ownership. The bill allows lenders to receive incentive payments for qualifying wind energy facilities under certain conditions and establishes a process for projects seeking incentive payments, including documentation requirements and timelines for operational status. Overall, the bill aims to streamline solar energy incentives and enhance renewable energy production while ensuring accountability in fund usage.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 116C.7792, 116J.55, 216B.1645, 216C.377, 216C.417, 216C.412