Energy Production Now and in the Future

We as a State and Nation, have entered into a new era that requires us to take a new look at energy production and consumption. While we all can see many challenges and reasons for concern, I am heartened to see that so many ordinary citizens are taking an active role in the discussion that will move us all forward.

We will not solve our energy needs with easy answers, but I have no doubt that we will meet this challenge as we have met others in the past and will come out the better for it. Our economic security, environment, and the long term well-being of our country and indeed world, depends upon it.

The need for a secure, sustainable energy future is engaging us with one of the strongest challenges that our country, state and people have ever faced. I have had a long time commitment to addressing that issue and I believe that, as is often the case, with challenge, comes new opportunity. I will continue to be a part of the team that helps Minnesota come to grips with this task.

Steps I have already taken include:

• Chief Authored HF3857 in 2008 Solar energy project conservation improvement expenditures allowed by Utilities. This bill was incorporated into SF 3337 and signed by the Governor on May 12 ’08
• Chief Authored HF 1770 Utility service disconnection and reconnecting conditions modified. Bill incorporated into SF 2096 Signed by the Governor on May 8, 2007
• Amended SF3337 to include requirement that the Office of Energy Security convene stakeholders to develop criteria for Minnesota based Solar rating and certification laboratory. Signed by Governor May 12’ 08
• Co-authored the Renewable Energy Standard legislation which was signed by the Governor February 22 ,2007.
• Chief Authored  HF 2137   Petroleum inspection fee use for weatherization assistance authorized.  Passed as part of SF2096, the  the 2007 Environment  & Energy Finance bill.  5//8/07 signed by the Governor.
• Chief Authored HF 3178 K-12 public school funding provided for renewable energy projects, bonds issued, and money appropriated. Included for consideration in the K-12 Education portion of the 2008 Bonding bill.
• Chief Authored HF 3137 Income or franchise tax credit provided for installation of solar thermal equipment, and money appropriated.