This bill aims to enhance Minnesota's energy policy and finance by establishing a budget for various energy initiatives, including geothermal and solar energy projects. It introduces new appropriations for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, allocating funds for weatherization assistance, natural gas innovation plans, community solar gardens, and energy benchmarking. The legislation also provides grants for renewable energy projects, such as a geothermal energy system at Como Zoo and a Green Hydrogen Project in St. Cloud. Additionally, it allows natural gas utilities to issue extraordinary event bonds to recover costs from unforeseen events and sunsets the renewable development account while creating new accounts for energy purposes.

The bill amends several sections of Minnesota Statutes, introducing new definitions and provisions related to low-income energy assistance programs, including an affordability program for low-income customers. It modifies existing definitions and outlines public utilities' responsibilities in assisting these households. The legislation emphasizes environmental reviews and streamlines project approvals through alternative urban areawide reviews. Significant changes include allowing customers to aggregate meters for billing, establishing a sunset clause for certain provisions, and expanding the definition of "carbon-free" energy technologies. The bill also introduces a rebate program for solar photovoltaic modules manufactured in Minnesota and outlines the responsibilities of lenders regarding facility ownership changes. Overall, the bill seeks to promote renewable energy, improve energy infrastructure, and ensure affordable energy access for low-income residents.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 47.60, 47.601, 80A.58, 80A.65, 62E.21, 62E.23, 62E.24, 62E.25, 116C.7792, 216C.09, 216C.10, 216C.11, 216C.12, 216C.391, 342.17, 342.37
1st Engrossment: 116D.04, 216B.02, 216B.16, 216B.164, 216B.1641, 216B.1691, 216B.2402, 216B.2421, 216B.243, 216C.09, 216C.10, 216C.11, 216C.12, 216C.391, 216C.47, 216I.02, 216I.07, 216B.62, 116C.7792, 116J.55, 216B.1645, 216C.377, 216C.417, 216C.412