SF3211 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Macalester College geothermal energy system appropriation
Related bill: HF2912
AI Generated Summary
Purpose of the Bill
The bill aims to allocate funds for the development of a geothermal energy system at Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota. This initiative is part of the state's efforts to promote sustainable energy solutions and reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
Main Provisions
- The bill authorizes the appropriation of $2,570,000 from the renewable development account for the fiscal year 2026.
- These funds are designated for a grant to Macalester College to construct an aquifer-based geothermal energy system.
- This system is intended to provide heating and cooling for a new campus residence hall and welcome center.
- It also includes the capability for future expansion to serve all campus buildings north of Grand Avenue as part of a district heating and cooling plant.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
- The bill overrides certain provisions of Minnesota Statutes section 116C.779 to permit this specific allocation of funds.
- It specifies that the appropriated funds will remain available until they are fully expended, without a time limit for completion.
Relevant Terms
geothermal energy system, renewable development account, aquifer-based, district heating, Macalester College, fiscal appropriation, sustainable energy, Minnesota legislature.
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
| Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| April 01, 2025 | Senate | Action | Introduction and first reading | ||
| April 01, 2025 | Senate | Action | Referred to | Energy, Utilities, Environment, and Climate |
Citations
[
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Appropriates funds for a geothermal system at Macalester College."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "The bill appropriates funds from the renewable development account under section 116C.779 for a geothermal energy project.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "116C.779",
"subdivision": "subdivision 1"
}
]Progress through the legislative process
In Committee