Minnesota Lawmakers Side with the Local Economy and Clean Energy Access

Final Bill Rejects the Repeal of the State’s Community Solar Garden Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 11, 2025 

Saint Paul, MN–  After tireless pressure from communities and advocacy organizations like Vote Solar, lawmakers pulled repeal language from SB 2855 and its House companion—protecting Minnesota’s Community Solar Garden program. This is a major win—securing access to clean, affordable solar for thousands of renters, homeowners, schools, farms, and small businesses.

The Community Solar Garden program has been a cornerstone of Minnesota’s clean energy transition, poised to deliver billions in economic benefits, lowering energy costs for all subscribers, and expanding affordable access to solar energy, particularly for low-to-moderate-income residents. 

“During a time when state-level action is crucial, it is a major win to see that Minnesota lawmakers side with communities and the clean energy advocates to keep the Community Solar Garden program intact,” said Vote Solar’s Midwest Regional Director, Patty O’Keefe. “We thank our champions in the legislature who stood strong in defense of this program and recognize that community needs and the state’s climate goals are far more important than utility profits.”

Because of the rejected proposed repeal, Minnesotans will now see the results from last year’s modernization of the Community Solar Garden program, ensuring that more households, including low-to-moderate-income (LMI) communities, can now access the benefits of local clean energy. A Minnesota Department of Commerce study found that the program is projected to deliver $2.92 billion in net benefits to the state, with ongoing savings projected to reduce energy bills by 3-8% for both LMI and non-LMI customers. With bipartisan support in both chambers, the bill is now headed to the Governor’s desk. 

“This isn’t just a policy win, this is a community win,” said O’Keefe. “Protecting community solar means protecting access to affordable, reliable, clean energy for all Minnesotans across the state.”

About Vote Solar

Vote Solar is a nonprofit advocacy organization working to advance state-level policies that make solar and clean energy solutions accessible to all. Since 2002, Vote Solar has worked to build a just and equitable energy future by leveraging deep policy expertise, strategic partnerships, and public engagement. In the face of powerful opposition, Vote Solar champions bold solutions that expand clean energy access, drive investment in frontline communities, and accelerate the transition to 100% clean energy.