Joint Statement from CCSA, MnSEIA, Vote Solar, Institute for Local Self-Reliance, Community Power MN, and Solar United Neighbors on SF 2393:
“As leading advocates for clean energy and community-driven solutions, we—CCSA, MnSEIA, Vote Solar, the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, Community Power MN, and Solar United Neighbors—strongly oppose SF 2393, the Senate Energy Omnibus Bill, which would sunset Minnesota’s Low- to Moderate-Income Accessible (LMI) Community Solar Garden (CSG) Program in 2028.
This proposal would abruptly end a CSG program that is just getting started. Established in 2023, the LMI CSG program has only completed its first year of operation, with just a few megawatts of development online. Yet, the benefits are already clear. A 2024 Minnesota Department of Commerce (DoC) report found the program to be cost-effective, projecting $2.92 billion in net benefits over 40 years and monthly savings for LMI subscribers of $7–$10. The report also notes that LMI non-subscribing customers do not face increased rates because of the program, as the structure of the LMI CSG program protects them from any incurred costs.
Despite this, SF 2393 would eliminate 500 MW of planned community solar, slated to come online between 2028 and 2035. According to new analysis from CCSA, this would result in the loss of over 9,000 local jobs and a staggering $1.4 billion in economic activity for the state.
Make no mistake—this policy benefits only one stakeholder: Xcel Energy, the monopoly utility. No testimony at the Senate Energy Committee supported the CSG sunset provision. In contrast, the Minnesota Department of Commerce, CCSA, MnSEIA, Vote Solar, and others testified against it. The utility’s arguments ignore the fundamental fact that ratepayers already share in the costs of utility investments, while community solar uniquely expands access to clean energy savings for renters and LMI families.
Sunsetting the LMI CSG program is short-sighted, economically damaging, and counter to the state’s energy equity goals. We urge Minnesota lawmakers to reject this provision in SF 2393 and instead work to strengthen, not dismantle, a program delivering real economic and environmental value to Minnesotans across the state.”