Walz Announces Plan For 100 Percent Clean Energy In MN By 2040

TWIN CITIES, MN — Gov. Tim Walz Thursday announced a set of policy proposals to get Minnesota to 100 percent clean energy in the state’s electricity sector by 2040. Among the proposals is a requirement that utility companies to prioritize "clean energy" over fossil fuels when replacing power plants.

"The time to fight climate change is now," said Walz in a news release.

"Not only is clean energy the right and responsible choice for future generations, clean energy maximizes job creation and grows our economy, which is especially important as we work to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. I am proud to announce a set of policy proposals that will lead Minnesota to 100% clean energy in the state’s electricity sector by 2040. Minnesotans have the ingenuity and innovation needed to power this future, and we are ready to pioneer the green energy economy.”

Walz’s plan has four parts:

"100 Percent Clean Energy by 2040"

This standard would require all electric utilities in Minnesota to use only carbon-free energy resources by 2040, while setting interim goals along the way. It would also strengthen Minnesota’s renewable energy standard with new goals. The proposal includes provisions to assist workers and communities affected by the transition, while prioritizing local jobs and prevailing wages for large new clean energy projects.

"Clean Energy First"

This regulatory policy would require that, whenever a utility proposes to replace or add new power generation, it must prioritize energy efficiency and clean energy resources over fossil fuels. This policy would strengthen an existing renewable energy preference in Minnesota law, and it would allow for fossil fuel-based power only if needed to ensure reliable, affordable electricity.

"Energy Optimization"

This proposal would raise Minnesota’s Energy Efficiency Resource Standard for investor-owned electric utilities and expand the Conservation Improvement Program that helps Minnesota households and businesses save on their utility bills by using energy more efficiently. It would also encourage utilities to develop innovative new programs to help consumers and businesses switch to more efficient, cleaner energy. In addition, it would target more energy-saving assistance for low-income households.

"Carbon Reduction Goals for Existing Buildings."

This proposal would set a state goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions from existing buildings in half by 2035.

Xcel Energy and Minnesota Power, Minnesota’s two largest public utilities, have already committed to generating 100 percent of their electricity from clean energy by 2050.

More than 100 major global companies have also pledged to meet their energy needs with 100 percent clean energy by 2050 or sooner, including Minnesota-bsaed 3M and Target.