Bill > SF3211

This bill appropriates $2,570,000 in fiscal year 2026 from the renewable development account to the commissioner of commerce for a specific grant to Macalester College in St. Paul. The grant is specifically designated for constructing an aquifer-based geothermal energy system, which is defined in the bill as a system involving wells that access underground aquifers, heat pumps that transfer thermal energy between buildings and the aquifer, heat exchangers, and related infrastructure. The geothermal system will provide space heating and cooling for a new campus residence hall and welcome center, with the potential for future expansion to serve as a district heating and cooling plant for all campus buildings north of Grand Avenue. The bill notes that this appropriation is an exception to existing statutes and will be available until expended, allowing flexibility in the project's timeline. By supporting this geothermal energy project, the bill aims to promote renewable energy infrastructure at a local educational institution.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF3211&ssn=0&y=2025