Minnesota’s new clean energy laws could position Walz as a national climate leader

Governor Tim Walz’s reforms to Minnesota’s clean energy permitting process could make him a key player in national climate policy if Kamala Harris wins the 2024 election.

Jennifer McDermott and Isabella O’Malley report for The Associated Press.

In short:

• Walz signed legislation to streamline permitting for clean energy projects in Minnesota, eliminating some of the biggest bureaucratic hurdles.
• The new law is seen as a model that other states could follow, though replicating it federally may be challenging.
• Walz’s experience with these reforms could shape his role in climate policy if he becomes vice president.

Key quote:

“Any permitting bill that makes it easier to build clean energy infrastructure and getting connected is really vital to all of our climate goals.”

— Ben Pendergrass, vice president of government affairs at Citizens Climate Lobby

Why this matters:

Speeding up the clean energy transition is vital in meeting climate goals. Walz’s legislative experience could be influential in shaping national energy policies.