HF2162

Purpose

• To provide funding for geothermal planning by awarding planning grants.

Main Provisions

• Section 1 establishes a one-time appropriation in fiscal year 2026.
• Source of funds: from the Renewable Development Account (Minnesota Statutes, 116C.779, subdivision 1).
• Recipient: the commissioner of commerce.
• Use of funds: to award geothermal planning grants to eligible applicants under Minnesota Statutes section 216C.47.
• Legal mechanism: the appropriation is made “notwithstanding” Minnesota Statutes section 116C.779, subdivision 1, paragraph j, meaning it bypasses or overrides that specific provision for this appropriation.
• Timing: this is a one-time appropriation.

Significance and Changes to Law

• Creates a new, one-time funding flow from the Renewable Development Account to support geothermal planning.
• Expands or enables grant-making authority for geothermal planning through the commissioner of commerce.
• Temporarily adjusts existing statutory constraints for this appropriation using the notwithstanding clause.

Summary of Impact

• Provides targeted funding in FY2026 to support geothermal planning projects by eligible applicants, potentially accelerating geothermal energy planning and development in Minnesota.

Relevant Terms geothermal planning grants; commissioner of commerce; Renewable Development Account; Minnesota Statutes 116C.779; subdivision 1; paragraph j; fiscal year 2026; one-time appropriation; eligible applicants; Minnesota Statutes 216C.47; notwithstanding.