SAINT PAUL, MN — Today, the Minnesota House is expected to approve a new jobs and energy budget (HF 2208). Rep. Jamie Long (DFL – Minneapolis), Vice Chair of the Energy and Climate Division, is the chief author of several bills that were included in the budget legislation.
“We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transition to clean energy and create good homegrown jobs,” said Rep. Long. “Let’s build a thriving clean energy economy, protect our health, and once again lead the nation in the fight against climate change.”
Establishing a pathway to adopt 100 percent carbon-free energy by 2050 is one of Rep. Long’s priorities this session and a cornerstone of the energy budget. This transition would reduce Minnesota’s dependence on fossil fuels and encourage the use of clean energy alternatives. The budget ensures that electricity is reliable and affordable during and after the transition. New opportunities for utility consumers to conserve energy and save money by switching to cleaner electricity sources are also included.
Additional provisions in the bill that were introduced by Rep. Long include:
- Rebates for purchasers of electric vehicles
- Grants for public charging stations and electric vehicle infrastructure
- Improvements for community solar gardens
- Research and funding for making buildings more energy efficient
- Providing utility consumers with access to their own energy data