Rep. Paul Marquart Concerned with Governor’s Clean Energy Proposal

DETROIT LAKES (KDLM) – Rep. Paul Marquart says he has some concerns about Governor Walz ambitious clean energy proposal for the State of Minnesota.

The proposal, announced in mid-January will position the state to 100% clean energy in the state’s electricity sector by 2040.

A large part of the plan would require electric utilities in Minnesota to only use carbon-free energy resources by 2040 and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to adopt California’s clan car standards.

“I’ve got concerns about it, I’ve heard from a number of auto dealers – the concern is the availability of electric vehicles and how do you keep it cost prohibitive,” Marquart said.

While the standards will require car dealers in the state to stock more zero-emission vehicles, it won’t require consumers to buy them. However, those opposed argue that the process is bypassing lawmakers and the new standards will drive up the cost of all cars and trucks sold in Minnesota.