MN SF3635

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

Mandates utilities 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 nonrenewable energy facilities unless utilities first demonstrate no cost-effective and reliable combination of renewable energy, efficiency, demand response, or storage resources can meet the identified need.

Requires the commission to consider whether renewable resource plans help utilities achieve greenhouse gas reduction goals, renewable energy standards, and solar energy standards when determining public interest.

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