MN HF4461

Amends Minnesota Statutes section 216C.376, subdivision 5 to establish funding amounts for the solar for schools program: $8,000,000 in 2022, $4,300,000 in 2023, $8,000,000 in 2024, and $8,000,000 in 2025, withheld from public utility transfers under section 116C.779.

Requires withheld funds to be used for financial assistance awards under the program and administrative costs, with any unexpended money five years after withholding canceling to the renewable development account.

Grants public utilities ownership of renewable energy credits from solar systems installed under the program for the life of the system, regardless of financial assistance duration.

Appropriates $4,300,000 from the general fund in fiscal year 2023 to the commissioner of commerce for schools to purchase and install solar energy generating systems, with base amounts of $8,000,000 for fiscal years 2024 and 2025, and $0 for fiscal year 2026.

Requires appropriated funds to support schools located outside the public utility's electric service territory, with funds available until June 30, 2028.