FRESH ENERGY

Acceleration fund - see schedule o.

Energy access and equity:fresh energy is committed to ensuring that the transition to clean energy benefits all. Equity is a consideration in our work across programs and within our internal operations. We also have a number of programmatic initiatives underway with a specific focus on equity, including serving as co-lead of the minnesota multifamily affordable housing energy network (mmahen), which connects building owners, renters, housing and energy advocates, financing entities, health professionals, and others to improve the efficiency of apartment buildings and other multifamily housing. In multiple state and national forums, we also shape renewable energy program design, energy efficiency and weatherization investments, and other initiatives to reduce the energy burden on under-resourced households. Access and equity are also central elements of our clean transportation work to electrify transit and school buses.

Clean electricity:generating electricity without carbon pollution is a crucial step toward a carbon-neutral future, and fresh energy is working hard to lock in a 90% carbon free electric system by 2025. Through active engagement at the minnesota public utilities commission, state legislature, and other decision-making venues, fresh energy is working to end reliance on fossil fuel, dramatically increase renewable electricity generation, and maximize efficiency with load management and other strategies. As a result of our efforts, coal plants are closing or running less often, utilities are making historic investments in more efficient systems, utility customers have new renewable electricity choices, and wind, solar, and battery storage are an increasing part of minnesota's energy system. Because a large-scale energy transition will require a strong, modern electric grid, fresh energy is also working to secure transmission for increased renewables across the region, and a distribution grid that supports clean energy projects in our communities.

Public affairs:as a policy organization, fresh energy drives change in multiple decision-making forums including local governments, the minnesota legislature and with our congressional delegation. Our public affairs department provides expert leadership on policy-maker education, advocacy, and coalition work with partners across the state. In collaboration with our communications team the public affairs department also operates a growing action network that equips the public to weigh in on climate and energy decision making.