Rep. Larry Kraft honored with CEEM’s 2024 Clean Energy Legislative Champion Award
ST. LOUIS PARK, Minn. — Clean Energy Economy MN (CEEM) is proud to present the 2024 Clean Energy Legislative Champion Award to Representative Larry Kraft (DFL-St. Louis Park) for his exceptional leadership in advancing clean energy policies and his dedication to driving Minnesota towards a sustainable future.
“Rep. Kraft has been a relentless advocate for clean energy and climate action,” said CEEM Executive Director Gregg Mast. “His work in the Minnesota House has laid the groundwork for significant advancements in energy efficiency, transmission and transportation infrastructure and the commercialization of innovative energy technologies. We are honored to recognize his leadership with this year’s award.”
Rep. Kraft has played a critical role as Vice Chair of the House Climate and Energy Finance and Policy Committee. His influence extends across multiple House committees, including Commerce Finance and Policy, Sustainable Infrastructure Policy and Transportation Finance and Policy. As a lead author, Rep. Kraft’s legislative achievements include:
1. Creating a robust energy innovation ecosystem
Championed the formation of the Minnesota Energy Alley initiative to support energy innovators and start-ups, accelerating the commercialization of new technologies, supported by a $3 million appropriation administered by the Minnesota Department of Commerce.
2. Updating commercial and residential building codes
In 2023, provided updates to the commercial energy code and added commercial energy benchmarking to incrementally reach 80 percent reduction in net energy consumption from a 2004 baseline. In 2024, advocated for updates to residential building codes to enhance energy efficiency, setting the stage for a 70 percent reduction in energy use by 2038.
3. Led efforts to improve infrastructure in transmission and transportation
Through the NextGen Highways initiative and the expansion of electric vehicle infrastructure, alongside Kraft’s work on the Climate Smart Transportation bill, he’s ensured that Minnesota leads in both grid modernization and sustainable transportation as the state transitions to a low-carbon economy.
Rep. Kraft’s dedication to clean energy and his impactful legislative work continue to propel Minnesota toward a resilient, zero-carbon future.
“I am deeply honored to receive the Clean Energy Legislative Champion Award from CEEM,” said Rep. Kraft. “The progress we've made in Minnesota toward a sustainable and clean energy future is a testament to the hard work and collaboration of many dedicated individuals and organizations. As we continue to face the challenges of climate change, I remain committed to advancing policies that not only reduce our carbon footprint but also drive economic growth and innovation across our state. Together, we can ensure a cleaner, more prosperous future for all Minnesotans.”
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