Today, Governor Walz’s Administration announced a historic commitment to clean energy for our state: 100 percent carbon-free electricity in Minnesota by 2050. Fresh Energy’s executive director, Michael Noble, spoke at the press conference and voiced his enthusiastic support of this monumental, nation-leading announcement.
Recent reports from the United Nations and the 13 federal agencies of the United States government make the reality strikingly clear: we must enact carbon-reducing legislation to reach a 100 percent carbon-free electric sector—and as quickly as possible. Fresh Energy enthusiastically applauds Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan whose commitment today mirrors Xcel Energy’s announcement of 100 percent carbon-free energy by 2050.
Clean, renewable energy will bring enormous economic and public health benefits to the state. Significant investments in solar and wind energy, storage, and electric vehicle infrastructure will only accelerate this shift. By 2050, a decarbonized energy system is expected to triple the number of energy jobs in Minnesota, including 14,000 new jobs in wind and 36,000 new jobs in solar.
Fresh Energy executive director Michael Noble released the following in response:
“We must achieve carbon-neutrality by mid-century and 100 percent carbon-free electricity is the bedrock of that goal. The announcement today by the Walz Administration and the Department of Commerce helps lead a nation needing leadership. We look forward to working alongside the Administration to accelerate Minnesota’s transition to our clean energy future.”
