HF1405 - Clean Energy First Act

• Requires utilities to meet resource needs using clean energy resources and establishes preference for renewable energy and carbon-free resources over nonrenewable energy facilities, unless utilities demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that clean energy alone is not in the public interest.

• Defines clean energy resources as renewable energy, energy storage systems, energy efficiency, or load management, and carbon-free resources as generation that does not contribute to greenhouse gas emissions (excluding existing nuclear facilities).

• Authorizes cost recovery for utility investments in transmission facilities, storage systems, and clean energy development, with priority hiring of workers from communities hosting retiring power plants including Becker, Monticello, Oak Park Heights, and Red Wing.

• Requires utilities to include 50, 75, and 100 percent clean energy plans in resource filings and conduct seasonal operations analysis for coal-fired units; establishes pilot project provisions allowing utilities to test seasonal coal plant operation with commission approval.

• Mandates utilities post current rate schedules online, include financial incentive information in customer bills, report generation sources and environmental impacts to customers, and requires prevailing wage rates for approved energy projects.