Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to allocate funding for microgrid research and application at the University of St. Thomas Center for Microgrid Research in Minnesota. Additionally, the bill extends the availability of previous appropriations made for this purpose.

Main Provisions

• Appropriation of Funds: The bill appropriates $1,200,000 from the renewable development account for the fiscal year 2026. These funds are specifically earmarked for the University of St. Thomas Center for Microgrid Research.
• Utilization of Funds: The funds are to be used to enhance the center's capacity to work with industry partners on testing near-commercial microgrid products on a real-world scale. This includes procuring advanced equipment and controls, extending the microgrid to more buildings, and expanding educational opportunities related to microgrid operations.
• Educational and Outreach Activities: The appropriation aims to enrich hands-on educational opportunities for both traditional and non-traditional students and to expand outreach activities to improve understanding and operations of microgrids.

Significant Changes

• Extension of Previous Appropriations: The bill extends the availability of funds appropriated in the fiscal years 2024 and 2025 for this purpose until June 30, 2028, allowing more time for the research center to utilize these funds effectively.

Relevant Terms

renewable development, microgrid research, University of St. Thomas, appropriation, fiscal year 2026, educational opportunities, industry partners, real-world testing, advanced equipment, outreach activities.