How to make the most of Clean Energy Business Day 2026
April 10, 2026
Whether this will be your first time at Clean Energy Business Day or your tenth, you can utilize the following tips to get the most out of the day.
If it's your first time at the Capitol
If this will be your first time at the Minnesota Capitol, welcome! We encourage you to arrive early to find time to park, make your way into the building (it’s the one with the gold on top!), and proceed through security screening. If weather allows, plan to pack light. Storage space inside the Capitol is limited, and carrying fewer items helps keep the security line moving quickly.
The State Capitol also has new screening protocols in 2026. All visitors should expect to walk through screening equipment, and any bags will be scanned. While the process has generally been efficient, arriving a few minutes early and packing light will help ensure a smooth experience.
So what should you bring with you? A reusable water bottle is a good idea, as the Capitol has plenty of water fountains. Consider packing one or two snacks to help fuel your day. Dress at the Capitol is typically business professional, and if possible, plan to leave jackets, gloves, and hats in your car.
If you arrive early for Clean Energy Business Day, head to Capitol Ridge (161 St Anthony Ave, St Paul, MN 55103) first to pick up a lanyard and general information. Event staff will have a table set up between 12:30 and 3:00 p.m. Lanyards, sponsored by Geronimo Power, will help attendees and policymakers easily identify who is onsite for Clean Energy Business Day. Staff will also be distributing legislative priorities and details about the day.
Want to get familiar with the Capitol grounds ahead of time? Review the map to help plan your route and navigate the area.
Hoping to learn more about the Capitol Complex? Join a volunteer-led tour. The Minnesota Historical Society offers guided tours throughout the day with the first starting at 9:00 a.m. Tours leave on the hour and last 45-minutes. Visitors explore the Capitol’s history, art, architecture, and state government structure.
Join us for the rally at the Rotunda
To get the full context for Clean Energy Business Day at the Capitol, we encourage you to join us for the rally in the Capitol Rotunda. This kickoff gathering highlights why the business voice matters in the clean energy transition and showcases Minnesota’s continued leadership and commitment at the state level.
Event organizers will share insights into Minnesota’s clean energy landscape, and a representative from the Minnesota Department of Commerce will discuss the state’s approach to the transition. In celebration of the 10th annual Clean Energy Business Day, meteorologist and Praedictix founder Paul Douglas will offer remarks connecting Minnesota, the business community, and the energy sector. Attendees will also hear the Clean Energy Business Day proclamation, signed by Governor Walz.
This energizing kickoff event is designed to inspire optimism and momentum for the day ahead. All you need to bring is yourself and your energy.
Come to Capitol Ridge
After recharging at the Rotunda gathering, we will reconvene at Capitol Ridge at 2:30 p.m. to hear directly from legislative leaders about their perspectives on clean energy in Minnesota. This is the perfect opportunity to listen to policymakers from both sides of the aisle and discuss the bills in consideration during this year’s legislative session. In between the speakers, you’ll have time to network, relax, and soak up the atmosphere of Clean Energy Business Day 2026.
How to meet with your legislator
How to make the most of a group meeting with your legislator
Throughout the day, many participants will meet with their legislators. These meetings typically include multiple constituents, so they may feel different from a one on one conversation with a lawmaker. For group meetings, plan to gather a few minutes early near your meeting location to review your strategy.
Know what is most important for each constituent to share and try to allow time for each participant to share their perspective. Keep your remarks concise and respectful of others. If you have additional details or specific requests, you can follow up after the meeting by email with the legislator’s assistant. Be sure to leave behind any written materials so the legislator can reference them later. As a reminder, Clean Energy Business Day centers the business voice, so we encourage you to frame your comments through that lens.
Need support while at the Capitol? Find an event staff member who will happily point you in the right direction.
Happy hour and networking tips
One of the highlights of bringing together business and clean energy leaders from across the state is the chance to connect at the happy hour that follows the day’s events. Join us at 4:15 p.m. at Capitol Ridge (161 St Anthony Ave, St Paul, MN 55103) for appetizers, drinks and networking.
Our top tips for networking success will help you make the most of this time and leave the day with new connections and fresh energy.
- Be genuinely curious – ask other people questions and listen to what they have to say
- Bring business cards – you want to have a way to stay in touch if you do connect with someone
- Practice your “pitch” if you’re nervous – who are you and what do you do?
- Keep it light – there is no pressure to make the next biggest deal of your career here. You can show up, enjoy yourself and meet some new people who are interested in clean energy
- Try keeping your conversations in a U shape, instead of a circle so more people are able to join
