Bill > SF4409

This bill, the Energy Conservation and Optimization Act of 2020, would: - Establish a statewide energy savings goal equivalent to 2.5% of annual retail energy sales, to be achieved through various measures including energy conservation improvement programs, rate design, energy efficiency by consumers, appliance standards, market transformation programs, and utility infrastructure improvements. - Allow utilities to invest up to $5 million per year in innovative clean energy technologies that benefit customers. - Require consumer-owned utilities to meet annual energy savings goals, with at least 1% from energy conservation improvements. - Authorize public utilities and consumer-owned utilities to include programs for efficient fuel-switching improvements and load management in their energy conservation and optimization plans. - Increase the minimum amount utilities must spend on low-income energy conservation programs. - Provide for the recovery of utility expenses related to energy conservation and optimization plans. The bill aims to increase energy savings, promote innovative clean technologies, and expand low-income energy efficiency programs across Minnesota.