MMUA Digest: SMMPA award, battery storage, Interacting on the Issues, and more

News of the week

SMMPA, members honored with ENERGY STAR award

The Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (SMMPA) and its 17 member municipal utilities have been honored with the 2024 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year Award by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Recognized as an ENERGY STAR partner since 2000, SMMPA and its members have been lauded for their proactive promotion of ENERGY STAR products to residential customers and for their continual expansion of initiatives embracing new ENERGY STAR measures. This award marks a significant achievement for SMMPA and its members, who have previously received ENERGY STAR awards in 2003, 2004, 2010, and 2016 for their dedication to energy efficiency leadership.

The ENERGY STAR program annually recognizes organizations that demonstrate outstanding contributions to energy efficiency, playing a crucial role in the transition to a clean energy economy. These efforts have collectively saved more than 5 trillion kilowatt-hours of electricity over the past three decades.

To read more, click here.

Last chance for topic proposals for the 2024 Summer Conference

MMUA seeks proposals for 2024 Summer Conference in Fargo/Moorhead. The theme of this year's conference is "Stronger Together." We will focus on topics involving communication, collaboration, and strengthening the municipal model. Members are encouraged to submit proposals for speakers and topics that fit within this framework. This request for proposals includes both those who wish to present (“I can share”) and those who would like to request certain topics (“I want to hear about [this]”).

To submit a proposal, please fill out this form. The form will be open until April 1, and multiple submissions are allowed. Registration for the conference will open in May, and the hotel block is already open. Make your reservation through this link. We look forward to seeing you in Fargo/Moorhead!

PUC permits Minnesota’s first solar and battery energy storage project

The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has approved the Lake Wilson Solar Energy Project, marking the state's first permit for such a venture.

This project entails a 150-megawatt (MW) solar energy generating system in Murray County, featuring a four-hour battery energy storage system capable of storing up to 95MW of power. Through this setup, the solar farm will charge the battery during sunny periods and feed energy back into the grid as needed. Connection to the grid will be facilitated via Xcel Energy's existing Fenton to Chanarambie 115-kilovolt transmission line.

PUC Chair Katie Sieben expressed enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing its potential to generate skilled jobs, foster economic development, and enhance grid reliability. During the project approval meeting, the PUC also highlighted the anticipated increase in tax revenue for Murray County and the creation of approximately 250 local construction jobs, along with five full-time positions once the facility is operational.

To read more, click here.

President Biden signs bill including LIHEAP funding into law

On Saturday, President Biden signed six annual appropriations bills, averting a partial government shutdown, with one bill funding the Department of Health and Human Services, including the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

LIHEAP receives $4.025 billion for fiscal year 2024, a $25 million increase from 2023, excluding a $2 billion supplement. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act adds $100 million, bringing the total LIHEAP appropriation for FY 2023 to $6.1 billion. States have already received $3.7 billion.

Looking ahead, President Biden's FY 2025 budget proposes $4.1 billion for LIHEAP, with a provision allowing states to reserve 2.7 percent for water assistance. However, this provision has received little support from Congress and appears unlikely to advance for fiscal year 2025.

To read more, click here.

MMUA announces "Interacting on the Issues" sessions

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. Please consider joining us for a session at one of four locations around the state. We can't wait to hear from you and learn how we can help enhance and promote the great work you do.

Join the MMUA government relations team and peers from your region to 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 commission to join us, learn how MMUA is advocating for your utility, and give us your perspective so we can do better next year. We are especially eager to discuss ways MMUA can help commissioners champion hometown utilities. Learn more and register by clicking on the links below.

Looking ahead

Minnesota Public Power Walleye Tournament

June 1

Bladow Beach Resort (Ottertail)

Registration deadline: May 17

We are excited to announce registration is now open for the Minnesota Public Power Walleye Tournament. Last year's tournament raised $3,300 for post-secondary line work programs in Minnesota. We hope you can join and help us have another record-breaking year: the more we fish, the more we give!

"Public power" is inclusive of all Minnesota electric cooperatives, municipal utilities, and industry affiliates and suppliers. All are welcome to participate in this event, whether you have worked in the industry or not. This fun, friendly competition offers cash prizes for top-placing teams and the largest walleye.

For complete details about the event and to register, please click here.

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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