How much do renewables cost?

Analyzing the cost impact on utility rates from complying with the state’s renewable energy standard would be required of utilities under a bill held over April 13 by the House Environment, Energy and Natural Resources Policy and Finance Committee for possible omnibus bill inclusion.

Sponsored by Rep. Peggy Scott (R-Andover), HF1375 is an attempt to determine whether the standards impact consumer rates. The standard requires that 25 percent of the state’s electricity comes from renewable energy sources by 2025.

The bill has bipartisan support, but committee members disagree on the scope of the process. Rep. Andrew Falk (DFL-Murdock) said the analysis should include all electric transmission costs, including capital expenses. Rep. Jean Wagenius (DFL-Mpls) said less renewable energy would result in increased health costs from air pollution and should be part of the analysis.

Linda Taylor, clean energy director for Fresh Energy, said the report should only include rate-making information and not the utilities’ integrated resource plans. Taylor also said the report should be uniform between utilities, so that the information is being gathered and reported in the same manner. She also asked that language regarding the protection of trade secrets be added to the bill.

Sara Rummel, legislative director for the Service Employees International Union of Minnesota, also wants the health savings noted as well as the jobs created as a result of the renewable energy standard.

Sen. Michelle Benson (R-Ham Lake) sponsors a companion, SF1093, which awaits action by the Senate Energy, Utilities and Telecommunications Committee.