This bill proposes significant changes to Minnesota's energy laws, primarily by repealing the renewable development account and establishing a new solar energy production incentive program. It repeals specific sections of Minnesota Statutes that governed the renewable development account and sunsets the utility's solar production incentive program by December 31, 2025. A new solar energy production incentive account will be managed by the commissioner of commerce, with a total of $42.5 million allocated for the program from 2021 to 2025. Additionally, any unspent funds in this account after December 31, 2036, will revert to the general fund, and a one-time appropriation of $5 million from the general fund is designated for fiscal year 2026 to support these incentives.

The bill also introduces a rebate program for solar photovoltaic modules manufactured in Minnesota, providing financial incentives for property owners who install these systems. It outlines eligibility criteria for renewable energy production incentives, including provisions for hydroelectric, wind energy, and on-farm biogas recovery facilities. Furthermore, the bill establishes criteria for determining the combined nameplate capacity of wind energy conversion systems under common ownership and details the ownership and financing requirements for qualifying facilities to receive incentive payments. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline solar energy funding and management while promoting renewable energy generation in the state.

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