Green Building/Energy Efficiency
Senator Franken believes we need to transition away from fossil fuels and towards a clean energy economy to generate more green jobs, more innovation, and more opportunities for investment. Improving the energy efficiency of our homes and businesses is a critical part of that transition and will lead to both reductions in carbon emissions and savings for consumers on home energy costs. With money saved on energy bills, cash-strapped Minnesota businesses can recoup some of the capital they need to expand and create more jobs. Senator Franken introduced the Strengthening Our Economy through Employment and Development (SEED) Act, which would provide $5 billion in direct grants to states and local governments and tribes for residential and public buildings retrofits.
Minnesota is in a position to benefit from national energy legislation but it's critical that we get the details right. Senator Franken will work with groups in Minnesota and his colleagues on both sides of the aisle in Congress to ensure that any energy legislation moves us towards a new clean energy economy and that Minnesota is best positioned to reap the benefits.