News > CEO’s Message – February 2026

CEO’s Message – February 2026

Minnesota Legislative Priorities 2026

At the time of this issue, the 2026 Minnesota legislature is officially in session. Stearns Electric, in partnership with our statewide organization, the Minnesota Rural Electric Association (MREA), continues to focus on key legislative priorities impacting rural electric cooperatives across the state. This year, two priorities lead our efforts: lifting Minnesota’s moratorium on nuclear energy and reforming outdated net metering policies. 

LIFTING MINNESOTA’S NUCLEAR ENERGY MORATORIUM
For decades, Minnesota has maintained a moratorium on new nuclear energy projects, limiting the state’s ability to explore carbon-free and reliable power generation. As electric cooperatives work to meet growing demand and integrate more renewable energy, baseload power from advanced nuclear technologies offers immense potential. 

Nuclear energy plays a key role in the clean energy transition. Unlike wind or solar, it provides constant, reliable power regardless of weather conditions or time of day. With advancing technologies like small modular reactors (SMRs), nuclear energy can complement renewables while reducing carbon emissions. 

Removing the moratorium doesn’t commit Minnesota to nuclear projects today, but it opens the door to important conversations about ensuring a balanced energy mix for the future. MREA is co-leading efforts to lift the moratorium alongside more than 40 partners, including utilities, labor unions, environmental groups and county governments, through the Minnesota Nuclear Energy Alliance. This coalition is bringing together members from across the political spectrum, and we’re optimistic 2026 can be the year Minnesota reopens the nuclear discussion. Learn more at mnnuclearenergyalliance.org. 

REFORMING NET METERING
Reforming Minnesota’s outdated net metering policies is another top priority. While net metering has encouraged the growth of distributed generation like rooftop solar, the current framework unfairly shifts costs to non-solar members. 

Electric cooperatives fully support renewable energy, but policies must ensure fair and equitable treatment for all cooperative members, whether or not they generate their own power. MREA is working toward reforms that balance affordability with encouraging renewable energy growth. By aligning incentives with the true costs and benefits of distributed energy resources, we can foster continued innovation without overburdening those who can least afford it. 

Throughout the session, MREA and Stearns Electric will continue to advocate for policies that ensure reliable, affordable and sustainable energy for all Minnesotans. While the legislative climate may present challenges, there are opportunities to make progress on key issues that benefit rural communities, strengthen the grid and advance innovative energy solutions. 

Sincerely,

Matt O’Shea
Chief Executive Officer