Purpose

• The bill would end (sunset) the community solar garden program in Minnesota. It does this by adding a sunset provision to the state statute.

Main provisions

• Adds a new subdivision (Subdivision 15) called “Sunset” to Minnesota Statutes 2024 section 216B.1641.
• Establishes a specific expiration date for the sunset provision: July 31, 2028.
• The sunset applies to the community solar garden program, meaning the program would terminate on or around that date unless further action is taken.

Significance and what this changes in law

• Creates a formal, time-limited end to the community solar garden program by statute.
• Changes the legal framework by introducing a new subdivision to section 216B.1641 to specify the sunset date.
• Signals a policy shift away from continuing or expanding the community solar garden program beyond July 31, 2028, at least as currently structured in law.

Implementation notes

• The bill was introduced in the Senate and referred to the Energy Utilities Environment and Climate committee for consideration.
• The exact effects after July 31, 2028 would depend on subsequent legislative action or further clarifications in the statute, but the text provided establishes a sunset date for the program.

Relevant Terms - community solar garden program - sunset - expiration date - Minnesota Statutes 2024 section 216B.1641 - Subdivision 15 (Sunset) - This section expires July 31, 2028 - energy utilities environment and climate (committee reference)