Minnesota Statutes Utilities (Ch. 216-216H) § 216C.381. Community energy program

Subdivision 1. Findings. The legislature finds that community-based energy programs are an effective means of implementing improved energy practices including conservation, greater efficiency in energy use, and the use of alternative resources. Further, community-based energy programs are found to be a public purpose for which public money may be spent.

Subd. 2. Community energy councils; creation. Statutory and home rule charter cities, counties, or Indian tribal governments of federally recognized Minnesota-based bands or tribes, individually or through the exercise of joint powers agreements, may create community energy councils. Membership on a council shall include representatives of labor, small business, voluntary organizations, senior citizens, and low- and moderate-income residents, and may include city, county, and Indian tribal government officials, and other interested parties.

Subd. 3. Council powers and duties. In order to develop and implement community-based energy programs, a community energy council may:

Subd. 4. Department assistance. The commissioner may provide professional and financial assistance to communities to establish community energy councils, and develop and implement community energy programs, within available resources.