HF4596

The bill would provide funding to Brainerd Public Utilities to support energy efficiency projects in Brainerd. It would appropriate $7,500,000 in fiscal year 2027 from the Renewable Development Account to the commissioner of commerce to grant Brainerd Public Utilities for these projects.

Amount and timing: $7,500,000 in fiscal year 2027.
Source of funds: Renewable Development Account, under Minnesota Statutes section 116C.779 subdivision 1.
Beneficiary: Brainerd Public Utilities.
Administration: The commissioner of commerce would issue the grant.
Use of funds: To support energy efficiency projects.
Definition of energy efficiency project: Includes upgrades to existing turbine generators, replacement of existing turbine generators with new units, and improvements to existing structures to accommodate new turbine generators.
Availability of funds: The appropriation is available until expended.
Legal authority: Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes section 116C.779 subdivision 1 paragraph j, the funds may be used as described.

Overrides a restriction in the referenced statute to allow this specific appropriation and grant to Brainerd Public Utilities for energy efficiency projects.

To enhance energy efficiency for Brainerd Public Utilities by updating or replacing turbine generators and modifying facilities as needed.

The bill ties funding to the broader framework governing renewable development and utility energy efficiency, but creates a specific, standalone grant mechanism for Brainerd Public Utilities.

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Date	Chamber	Where	Type	Name	Committee Name
March 23, 2026	House		Action	Introduction and first reading, referred to	Energy Finance and Policy
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In Committee