MN SF1197

Removes obsolete language from software sale fund provisions and redirects education department software proceeds from weatherization to the environmental fund.

Modifies renewable development account requirements for nuclear plants at Prairie Island and Monticello, allowing higher payments ($7.5 million and $5.25 million annually) when plants cease operation if spent fuel is not removed from the state within specified timeframes.

Establishes Department of Commerce authority to represent Minnesota interests before regional, national, and international energy policy bodies, with authority to assess energy utilities up to $1 million annually for these duties through June 30, 2015.

Authorizes Public Utilities Commission to approve multiyear rate plans (up to three years) for utilities if rates are determined to be just and reasonable, with extended timeline for commission review.

Creates new nuclear decommissioning provisions requiring utilities to provide cost estimates for used fuel storage scenarios (60, 100, and 200 years) and establishes reporting requirements for commission nuclear decommissioning reviews to the legislature.

Allows cost recovery for emission control products (sorbents, reagents, chemicals) through automatic rate adjustment mechanism and expands exemptions for large customer facilities from conservation improvement program requirements.