The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 216B.1691, subdivision 1, to redefine the term "carbon-free" in relation to energy generation. The new definition specifies that "carbon-free" includes technologies that generate at least 50 percent of a utility's annual retail electricity sales in Minnesota by combusting wood chips derived from either limbs, branches, and other by-products of timber harvesting for nonenergy purposes, or from discarded wood products. This change aims to broaden the scope of what qualifies as carbon-free energy, promoting the use of biomass in electricity generation.

Additionally, the bill introduces an effective date for the new provisions, stating that the changes will take effect the day following final enactment. The amendments reflect a legislative effort to encourage renewable energy sources and support environmental justice by potentially increasing the use of locally sourced biomass in energy production.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 216B.1691