MN SF3129

Appropriates $4,000,000 from bond proceeds to the commissioner of commerce for grants to public school districts to install solar energy systems on school buildings.

Eligible solar energy systems must be capital improvements with at least ten-year useful life and capacity of less than 300 kilowatts; systems cannot receive other rebates or utility incentives.

Divides appropriation equally between seven-county metropolitan area districts and districts outside the metro area, with grants distributed on first-come, first-served basis.

Grants may cover up to 95 percent of design, engineering, acquisition, and installation costs; school districts may issue debt under Minnesota Statutes section 123B.62 to cover their remaining cost share.

Authorizes the commissioner of management and budget to sell and issue state bonds up to $4,000,000 to provide funding, effective the day following final enactment.