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Minnesota outpacing US in cutting CO2 emissions; national amount dropped by 3 percent in 2023
The 2024 Minnesota Energy Factsheet reveals Minnesota's strides as a national leader in renewable energy adoption and emissions reduction.
With more than 50 percent of its electricity now sourced from carbon-free alternatives like wind, solar, and nuclear power, the state has surpassed national averages. Notably, power sector emissions dropped by 10 percent in 2023, and, overall, they have dropped by 54 percent from 2005 levels. Coal's share of electricity generation has been cut in half over the past decade, with all coal plants scheduled for retirement by 2035. Renewable energy's contribution increased by 12 percent over the last ten years, while natural gas usage doubled. Minnesota's electricity prices rose over the past two decades but remain slightly below the national average.
These findings come on the heels of the Energy Information Administration's recent report highlighting a 3 percent decrease in US energy-related CO2 emissions in 2023. The electric power sector accounted for more than 80 percent of this reduction, primarily due to decreased coal-fired electricity generation, which was supplanted by increased solar and natural gas generation.
To read more, click here.
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Call for MMUA award nominations
We remind you that MMUA's Nominations and Awards Committee is accepting nominations for MMUA's 2024 industry awards. This is a great way to recognize a municipal utility colleague, a public official, or a municipal utility system for showing leadership, innovation and providing an example for others to follow.
Nomination forms for the various awards can be downloaded from our website by clicking here. All nominations will be considered. The deadline for 2024 submissions is June 30. The awards will be presented at the MMUA Summer Conference in Fargo/Moorhead on August 21.
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CISA launches newsletter on National Cyber Incident Response Plan
The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has initiated the publication of a newsletter aimed at informing critical infrastructure stakeholders and key partners about the ongoing planning efforts to update the National Cyber Incident Response Plan (NCIRP).
CISA is spearheading the revision of the NCIRP by the end of 2024, in accordance with the 2023 National Cybersecurity Strategy. This update aims to enhance coordination and leverage the nation's collective capacity to mitigate the impact of cyber incidents. The NCIRP 2024 will emphasize principles of unification, shared responsibility, learning from past incidents, and staying abreast of evolving cybersecurity landscapes. It will foster a culture of collaboration, encourage proactive and action-oriented approaches, and prioritize agility in responding to cybersecurity challenges.
To sign up for the newsletter, click here.
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Report: US could benefit by repowering coal plants with advanced nuclear reactors
The National Association of State Energy Officials and the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners have jointly released a report advocating for repowering retired coal power plants with advanced nuclear reactors, including small modular reactors (SMRs). The report highlights the economic benefits of such a transition, citing the potential to offset tax revenue losses in coal-dependent communities and generate significant state and federal tax revenue.
While acknowledging challenges such as cost and timeline, the report emphasizes the compelling case for coal-to-nuclear transition, particularly in comparison to greenfield development. According to the report, state policies supporting nuclear power, technology-agnostic clean energy projects, feasibility studies, and workforce development initiatives are crucial for facilitating these transitions.
To read more, click here.
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APPA National Conference registration is open: June 7-12 in San Diego
The American Public Power Association (APPA)’s National Conference is the largest annual meeting for municipal utility leaders, bringing together more than 1,200 hometown utility leaders and industry experts. From thought-provoking keynote sessions to topical discussions and dynamic networking opportunities, this conference is your gateway to staying ahead of the curve and driving positive change in the public power sector.
Get the latest on critical issues facing public power, including grid security and reliability, innovation, advocacy, finance, energy resources, community engagement, and more. Also attend the Association Business Meeting where you'll have an opportunity to cast your vote on important policy resolutions that will shape APPA's advocacy efforts for the coming year and elect representatives for your region on the APPA Board of Directors.
To learn more, click here.
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Solar for Schools Grant Program
The Minnesota Department of Commerce Division of Energy Resources requests proposals from qualified schools throughout Minnesota for the Solar for Schools Grant Program (reference number: COMM_SFS05_20240110). The program, created by the State Legislature (Minn. Stat. 216C.375), is designed to provide grants to stimulate the installation of solar energy systems while using the opportunity to integrate renewable energy use into the school’s curriculum. Public schools, K-12 as well as Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, Tribal Contract and Cooperative Districts are eligible for funding based on financial need.
The full application is due Wednesday, June 7, 2024. For more information, click here.
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Interacting on the Issues
Last year, we had excellent meetings with commissioners and utility leaders about the outcome of the 2023 legislative session and its impact on local utilities. We also discussed regulatory issues, MMUA efforts to support municipal efforts, and we sought feedback on priorities for the coming year.
By popular demand, we are going back on the road this June. Join us for a session at one of four locations around the state.
The MMUA government relations team and peers from your region will discuss the implications of new laws, explore opportunities, and network with others committed to protecting, promoting, and strengthening hometown utilities.
There is no cost to attend, however registration is required for planning purposes. Encourage your whole council and commission to join us, learn how MMUA is advocating for your utility, and give us your perspective so we can continue to evolve how MMUA represents and supports you. We are especially eager to discuss ways MMUA can help commissioners champion hometown utilities. Learn more and register by clicking on the links below.
June 6—Hutchinson
June 13—Brainerd
June 26—Blue Earth
June 27—Alexandria
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As always, thank you for your association with MMUA and your commitment to delivering excellent service through locally owned utility assets in your community. Have a great week!
Christian Glanville
Marketing and Member Relations Manager
Direct: 763.746.0727 / Cell: 612.655.0598
Fax: 763.551.0459
cglanville@mmua.org | www.mmua.org
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Hometown services. Hometown strengths. Hometown solutions. | | | | |
