Minnesota electric cooperatives: 2026 legislative priorities

Courtesy: Minnesota Rural Electric Association (MREA)

The 2026 Minnesota legislative session convened Feb. 17 and constitutionally must adjourn by May 18.

After passing the biennial state budget in 2025, lawmakers are expected to focus largely on policy issues and the state’s capital investment bill, which funds public infrastructure projects. This session unfolds with legislators keenly aware that all 201 legislative seats and the state’s constitutional offices will be on the ballot in November.

The political backdrop is headlined by the recent announcement by incumbent Democratic Gov. Tim Walz that he will not seek reelection. At this point, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar will run on the Democratic side. However, there are 11 GOP candidates, including Speaker Lisa Demuth and Rep. Kristin Robbins, who are looking to fill the role. Little legislative progress is expected given the divided dynamics, but as history shows, the Minnesota Legislature often finds ways to surprise.

During this session, the Minnesota Rural Electric Association is advocating for policies that ensure reliable, affordable and sustainable energy for all Minnesotans. While the legislative climate may represent challenges, we see opportunities to make progress on key issues that benefit rural communities, strengthen the grid and advance innovative energy solutions.

This year, two priorities lead our efforts: lifting Minnesota’s moratorium on nuclear energy and reforming outdated net metering policies.

Lifting Minnesota’s Nuclear Energy Moratorium

For decades, Minnesota has maintained a moratorium on new nuclear energy projects, limiting the state’s ability to explore carbon-free and reliable power generation. As electric cooperatives work to meet growing demand and integrate more renewable energy, baseload power from advanced nuclear technologies offers immense potential.

Nuclear energy plays a key role in the clean energy transition. Unlike wind or solar, it provides constant, reliable power regardless of weather conditions or time of day. With advancing technologies like small modular reactors (SMRs), nuclear energy can complement renewables while reducing carbon emissions.

Removing the moratorium doesn’t commit Minnesota to nuclear projects today, but it opens the door to important conversations about ensuring a balanced energy mix for the future. MREA is co-leading efforts to lift the moratorium alongside more than 40 partners, including utilities, labor unions, environmental groups and county governments, through the Minnesota Nuclear Energy Alliance. This coalition is bringing together members from across the political spectrum, and we’re optimistic 2026 can be the year Minnesota reopens the nuclear discussion. Learn more at mnnuclearenergyalliance.org.

Reforming Net Metering

Reforming Minnesota’s outdated net metering policies is another top priority. While net metering has encouraged the growth of distributed generation like rooftop solar, the current framework unfairly shifts costs to non-solar members.

Electric cooperatives fully support renewable energy, but policies must ensure fair and equitable treatment for all cooperative members, whether or not they generate their own power. MREA is working toward reforms that balance affordability with encouraging renewable energy growth. By aligning incentives with the true costs and benefits of distributed energy resources, we can foster continued innovation without overburdening those who can least afford it.

Additional Areas of Focus

While lifting the nuclear moratorium and reforming net metering are MREA’s top priorities, several other issues remain important:

• Wildfire Mitigation: Rural utilities and cooperatives are key players in reducing wildfire risks. MREA is working with stakeholders to coordinate strategies that protect communities and critical infrastructure.

 • Utility Worker Protection: Existing laws mostly protect utility workers, but increasing public awareness remains a priority. We want to extend the cooperative culture of safety across our state.

• Energy Affordability: Co-ops prioritize keeping electricity affordable and will continue defending against mandates that raise costs and undermine reliable, balanced energy solutions.

A Trusted Voice for Rural Energy

MREA is dedicated to standing up for electric cooperatives and promoting policies that safeguard affordability, reliability and local control. Whether through testimony, outreach or collaboration, we will work to ensure the cooperative difference is front and center in Minnesota’s energy discussions.

From lifting the nuclear moratorium to reforming net metering, 2026 offers a chance to shape a stronger, more sustainable energy future. Together, we can ensure energy policies serve all communities fairly and equitably. To stay informed and join the conversation, visit voicesforcooperativepower.com/minnesota.

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