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Key issues: Energy

KEY PRIORITIES
FOR THE 2026 SESSION INCLUDED:

  • Ensure reliable, safe and cost-effective power at competitive prices now and into the future.
  • Support Minnesota businesses’ environmental objectives while keeping rates competitive.
  • Encourage energy policy that keeps energy costs reasonable as aligned with Minnesota energy policy goals.
  • Develop infrastructure including transmission and pipelines to ensure reliability in energy delivery.
  • Explore innovative pricing approaches for competitive fair, cost-based electricity rates for C/I consumers.
  • Reform the PUC and Department of Commerce regulatory and appointment process.
  • Support and promote cost-effective energy efficiency opportunities throughout the state.
  • Maintain existing nuclear facilities while championing policy reform that position our nuclear energy future in step with peer states.
  • Engage in evaluation of 2040 off-ramps. 
  • Continue to clarify the definition of carbon free electric energy generation and offsets including lifecycle analysis.
  • Monitor risks related to wildfire liability aimed at energy infrastructure.

 

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2026 outcomes
 

WINS

  • A study on the development of new nuclear energy generation in Minnesota. The Chamber has long supported policies that maintain existing nuclear facilities while championing policy reforms that position our nuclear energy future to be in step with peer states.

 

CONTINUED CHALLENGES

  • Likely continued efforts to cap ratepayer recovery of executive compensation for large utility providers. Similar proposals have been passed in other states. The Public Utilities Commission already takes executive compensation into consideration when deliberating rate cases.
  • Proposals to increase building performance standards to include strict limits on greenhouse gas emissions for larger commercial and government buildings – including multi-family housing. 
  • New requirements for certificate of need for pipeline projects to include product demand forecasting. 
  • AW/EIS review mandates for new data center projects will likely be introduced again next session. 
     

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