On April 11, volunteers and staff from USGBC Minnesota joined the eighth annual Clean Energy Business Day in Saint Paul, Minnesota, to support the state's 100% clean energy by 2040 commitment.

USGBC, along with the Center for Energy and Environment, Clean Grid Alliance and Minnesota Solar Energy Industries Project, helped organize the largest Clean Energy Business Day yet, with over 200 people signing up to attend. Joining them in spirit was Gov. Tim Walz, who previously declared April 11 to be Clean Energy Business Day.

Bills to advance resilience

USGBC connected with many legislators and in-state partners to share our resources and enthusiasm for the state’s climate action framework and its economy-wide net zero goal. The top bills we discussed focused on resilient buildings.

ECO Act Update: HF4574 | SF4562

The Energy Conservation and Optimization Act (ECO Act) was signed into law in 2021, and it updated the state’s energy efficiency policy framework. The 2024 proposal would make small modifications to the standards. We hope to see the bill included in an omnibus package.
State legislators Rep. Zack Stephenson and Sen. Jason Rarick are the primary sponsors of the bills, with multiple cosponsors in both the House of Representatives and Senate.

Residential Energy Standards: HF 4242 | SF 4204

The proposal would establish a residential energy rating rebate program and modify residential energy codes. USGBC supports the bills, as they could result in reduced energy bills, improved building health and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
State legislators Rep. Larry Kraft and Sen. Nicole Mitchell are the primary sponsors of the bills, with multiple cosponsors in both the House of Representatives and Senate.

C-PACE Update: HF 3946 | SF3535

Minnesota first passed commercial property assessed clean energy (C-PACE) legislation in 2010, and USGBC supports this legislation to modernize and strengthen the financing tool.
State legislators Rep. Ned Carroll and Sen. Lindsey Port are the primary sponsors of the bills, with multiple cosponsors in both the House of Representatives and Senate.

USGBC Minnesota and the Minnesota legislature have a shared interest in improving the quality of life for all residents. We applaud the work of the sponsors noted above who are leading the efforts to transform buildings and communities into healthy, vibrant and sustainable spaces.

Get involved

If you would like to join our volunteers in future advocacy activities, consider attending one of our upcoming events, and get involved with our community projects as a volunteer or join USGBC’s Advocacy Working Group.

Learn more about USGBC Minnesota

Clean Energy Business Day 2024