Purpose of the Bill

The bill is designed to support the development of renewable energy infrastructure at Macalester College by funding the construction of a geothermal energy system. This aims to advance renewable energy use at educational institutions in Minnesota.

Main Provisions

• Funding Allocation: The bill allocates $2,570,000 in fiscal year 2026 from the renewable development account to the Commissioner of Commerce. This funding is earmarked for a grant to Macalester College to build the geothermal energy system.
• Project Scope: The system will provide space heating and cooling for a new residence hall and welcome center at Macalester College. There is also potential for future expansion, allowing it to operate as a central heating and cooling plant for additional campus buildings north of Grand Avenue.
• Project Details: The geothermal system will utilize aquifers through specialized wells and heat pumps to facilitate thermal energy exchange between the campus buildings and the aquifer.

Significant Changes

• The bill provides financial support that overrides a limitation contained in Minnesota Statutes section 116C.779 regarding funding appropriations, specifically for this project.

Relevant Terms

geothermal energy, renewable development account, aquifer-based system, heat pumps, Macalester College, fiscal year 2026, grant, Commissioner of Commerce, district heating and cooling.