MN HF4404

Establishes a Solar on Public Buildings Grant Program in the Department of Commerce to provide grants for installing solar energy systems on buildings owned and operated by local units of government (counties, cities, towns, and other local jurisdictions, excluding school districts).

Creates a solar on public buildings grant program account in the special revenue fund, funded by transfers from the general fund and the renewable development account, with earnings remaining in the account until expended.

Limits eligible solar systems to those with capacity not exceeding 40 kilowatts or 120 percent of the building's average annual electricity consumption over the most recent three years, installed on or adjacent to the public building where the electricity is consumed.

Requires applicants (utilities or developers) to submit detailed applications including system capacity, current energy demand, projected savings, total costs, lifecycle costs, and maintenance agreements, with the commissioner administering at least two application cycles annually.

Mandates annual reporting to legislative committees beginning January 15, 2023, regarding grants awarded, amounts distributed, and remaining account balances, with appropriations provided for both buildings outside and within specific utility service areas.