MN HF4029

Establishes the "Renewables First Initiative" requiring electric utilities to prioritize renewable and clean energy resources when replacing retiring nonrenewable generation facilities.

Requires utilities to include in resource plans a plan to retire nonrenewable generation resources within ten years of full depreciation or whose operating licenses expire within ten years.

Prohibits the Public Utilities Commission from approving new or refurbished nonrenewable energy facilities unless utilities first demonstrate no cost-effective and reliable combination of renewable energy, energy efficiency, demand response, or energy storage resources can meet the identified need.

Requires public interest determination to consider whether resource plans help utilities achieve greenhouse gas reduction goals, renewable energy standards, or solar energy standards under Minnesota law.

Requires entities to identify transmission upgrades needed to support retirement of nonrenewable generation facilities within ten years of full depreciation or operating license expiration.