Key Issues: Energy and sustainability

Jan 7, 2022

Ensuring policymakers understand the price businesses are paying for power and seek to maintain reliable and cost-effective power at competitive prices

The Minnesota Chamber supports transitioning to cleaner energy and more sustainable practices. Voluntary clean energy and sustainability plans from Minnesota utilities and businesses are leading the way toward a cleaner future.

Minnesota is making tremendous progress toward cleaner energy. The state’s electric supply is nearly 50% carbon-free today and – without any new mandates – projects to be over 66% carbon-free by 2030. At the same time, affordability has suffered. Since 2008, Minnesota’s commercial/industrial electric rates have risen 20 times more than the national average and are now the 13th highest in the country.

Ensuring balance between affordability, reliability and cleaner energy is key to making energy policy that advances Minnesota’s economy.

Return on investment for your Minnesota Chamber membership

Our work gets results

Businesses saved $2,000 in energy costs per business taking advantage of Energy Smart program.
Businesses saved $4,700 in average financial compensation for each business taking advantage of the Chamber’s Waste Wise program.

2022 priorities include:

Ensure reliable, safe and cost-effective power at competitive prices.
Support Minnesota businesses’ sustainability goals while keeping rates competitive.
Encourage a balanced approach to grid modernization that achieves affordable, reliable and cleaner energy.
Explore innovative pricing approaches for competitive electricity rates for C/I consumers.
Reform the Public Utilities Commission and Department of Commerce regulatory and appointment process.
Support and promote cost-effective energy efficiency opportunities throughout the state.
Maintain existing nuclear facilities and explore the future of nuclear energy.

Make your voice heard

Make sure you're signed up for action alerts, join a policy committee or interact with legislators during 2022 Session Priorities! It's important for legislators to know how their actions impact employers, employees and Minnesota's economic recovery.

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