2021 Key Issues: Energy and sustainability

Jan 5, 2021

Ensuring policymakers understand the price businesses are paying for power and seek to maintain reliable and cost-effective power at competitive prices

Environmental sustainability and economic competitiveness do not need to be mutually exclusive. Minnesota energy providers and ratepayers have made significant investments to enhance energy systems – power generation, transmission and pipelines – and reduced harmful environments impacts at the same time. According to a recent study of businesses, 75% names reliability and affordability as the most important consideration of energy policy. Legislators must take steps to ensure affordable and reliable energy for businesses and oppose new mandates, fees and assessments that increase electricity prices.

The Chamber’s priorities for the 2021 session include:

Ensure reliable, safe and cost-effective power at competitive prices and explore innovative pricing approaches.
Encourage a balanced approach to grid modernization efforts in support of cost effective clean electricity.
Support and promote energy efficiency opportunities throughout the state.
Support Minnesota businesses’ sustainability goals while keeping Minnesota rates competitive.
Support and encourage voluntary climate change measures that are cost-effective, technology-neutral and technologically feasible, flexible, and prioritize market-based strategies, and are compatible with national climate change commitments.
Oppose legislation that would endanger the competitive viability of Minnesota businesses.

Our work gets results

Businesses saved $2,000 in energy costs per business taking advantage of Energy Smart program.
Businesses saved $4,700 in average financial compensation for each business taking advantage of the Chamber’s Waste Wise program.

Make your voice heard

Make sure you're signed up for action alerts, join a policy committee or interact with legislators during Chamber Week at the Capitol during the first week of March. It's important for legislators to know how their actions impact employers, employees and Minnesota's economic recovery.

Learn more