SAINT PAUL, MN: Today, the Minnesota Department of Commerce condemned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) attempt to unlawfully terminate the $62 million Solar for All grant awarded to Minnesota, a move that would raise electricity bills, kill clean energy jobs, and undermine the state’s progress toward affordable, reliable power. 

“This is about fairness, fiscal responsibility, and Minnesota’s progress to a clean energy future,” said Commissioner Grace Arnold. “We’re working to pursue every legal tool to protect these funds because Minnesota families deserve better reliability and lower costs.” 

Real People, Real Harm 

• Strips the opportunity from qualifying Minnesotans to save $250-300 per year in energy bills 

• Canceling Solar for All would eliminate funding that would have delivered 20% electricity bill savings to participating Minnesota families, including seniors and low-income households, on electricity, as utility rates surge statewide.

• 11,000+ households impacted 

• Initial estimates show Minnesota’s Solar for All program would serve over 11,000 low-income families, slashing their energy burdens. 

• Jobs on the chopping block 

• Local solar installation and manufacturing jobs will be impacted, many in rural areas. Nationally, Solar for All is projected to create hundreds of thousands of jobs.

Minnesota’s Energy Affordability Leadership at Risk 

Minnesota has been a national leader in clean energy affordability, with Solar for All poised to lower costs, reduce reliance on volatile fossil fuels, and keep the grid resilient. The EPA’s misguided reversal betrays a federal commitment to communities and wastes millions already spent preparing these projects. 

“This is a direct attack on Minnesota’s families, workers, and a clean energy future,” said Pete Wyckoff, Deputy Commissioner. “The EPA is ripping away savings from more than 11,000 households already struggling with rising costs while handing power back to fossil fuel giants. Raising energy bills during a time of increased inflation is backwards. We will not stand for it.” 

Next Steps 

The state is exploring immediate legal action to halt the EPA’s cuts. Residents can visit Commerce’s Solar for All webpage for updates and resources. 

Connect with the Minnesota Commerce Department 

Get updates and news from the Minnesota Department of Commerce by following Commerce at mn.gov/commerce or @MNCommerce on social media. 

Contact
Minnesota Department of Commerce
news.commerce@state.mn.us