Clean Energy Economy Minnesota Goes to Washington

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Clean Energy Economy MN visited with Congressional offices, spreading the important news of how clean energy costs are trending lower, while clean energy jobs continue to grow.

In late July, Gregg Mast, CEEM’s Executive Director, and Benjamin Stafford, CEEM’s Director of Policy and Public Affairs hit The Hill to brief Minnesota’s Congressional offices on clean energy economic indicators. CEEM also discussed the implications of federal policies for Minnesota’s clean energy businesses.

Minnesota clean energy data

CEEM and partners the Business Council for Sustainable Energy (BCSE) shared the Minnesota State Energy Factsheet, showing that renewables are the second largest source of generation in Minnesota. Minnesota is a clear leader in sustainable energy trends across the country, with significant year-over-year cost declines in wind (down 16%) and solar (down 23%). BCSE also shared that Minnesota’s power sector carbon emissions declined 34% since 2005 while residential energy bills remained 13% below the national average.

CEEM also provided information related to the Clean Jobs Midwest report, noting the over 61,000 clean energy jobs in Minnesota. Here’s the breakdown by district:

Federal Policy

Federal policy has significant impacts on clean energy in Minnesota. CEEM reiterated that stable policies drive investment certainty for the clean energy sector. Minnesota’s clean energy business growth is supported by smart federal tax policies and incentives. The role of federal research and development funding is critical for innovation and growth of clean energy technologies. CEEM also noted that regional energy markets, regulated federally, require smart regulatory oversight which helps clean energy to provide essential grid services. CEEM looks forward to continued collaboration on policy.

Senator Smith energy efficiency legislation

While on the trip, U.S. Senator Tina Smith introduced the American Energy Efficiency Act of 2019. This bill, supported by CEEM, establishes a nationwide energy efficiency standard, and encourages the use of cost-effective energy savings technologies (see Press Release). (Add picture with Tina Smith).

Thank you

CEEM is thankful to the elected officials and their respective staffs for taking the time to visit with us, and for their support of clean energy jobs and innovation in Minnesota. We look forward to working with our Congressional offices to provide useful industry information, drive innovation, and communicate the benefits of the clean energy industry in Washington.

Top photo, from L to R: CEEM Executive Director Gregg Mast, Senator Tina Smith, CEEM Director of Policy & Public Affairs Benjamin Stafford.

Bottom photo, from L to R: Gregg Mast, Nick Lunneborg, Rep. Tom Emmer’s office, and CEEM’s Benjamin Stafford.