A dramatic step in the right direction for clean, renewable energy production in Minnesota.

Minneapolis, MN -- (February 27, 2014) – Minnesota Community Solar (MNCS) praised today's long-anticipated Public Utilities Commission (PUC) ruling governing the development of community solar gardens in Minnesota. The decision is a dramatic step in the right direction for clean, renewable energy production in Minnesota.

Minnesota Community Solar is the first turn-key community solar garden developer in Xcel's territory.

The PUC's ruling came in response to Xcel Energy's petition regarding how community solar gardens (CSGs) will be integrated into Minnesota's electrical grid. CSGs became part of Minnesota's energy mix as part of a jobs bill passed by the Minnesota Legislature in 2013. Community solar gardens allow Xcel electricity customers to purchase solar energy from large arrays at locations away from their own homes, significantly expanding the number of Minnesotans with access to clean, locally-produced solar energy.

Minnesota Community Solar is pleased that the PUC's ruling will help ensure the growth and success of community solar in our state. The PUC's determinations establish a competitive, unlimited market in Xcel territory for community solar gardens, support strong consumer protection, ensure that solar garden customers will receive the full benefit of solar module warrantees, and set a viable interim rate for compensating solar garden subscribers. While the ruling is not perfect, MNCS believes the PUC's determinations move Minnesota in the right direction.

Minnesota Community Solar CEO Ken Bradley stated, "Today marks the true beginning of the solar revolution in Minnesota. Minnesota Community Solar would like to thank the PUC, Minnesota's elected officials, our clean energy partners and colleagues, and our subscribers. Their determined support of our industry is helping secure a clean energy future for Minnesota. We look forward to working with Xcel Energy to increase energy independence, create local jobs, and reduce global warming pollution."