RPU Board Reaffirms Commitment to 100% Net Renewable Energy by 2030
ROCHESTER, Minn. — The Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) Board of Directors has passed a resolution reaffirming its commitment to achieve 100% net renewable electricity by 2030. The resolution directs staff to prioritize renewable energy options while balancing system reliability, affordable rates, and environmental responsibility.
This action reflects both RPU’s long-term vision and the community’s voice. In a recent survey of nearly 1,900 customers, seven in ten respondents supported RPU’s 100% net renewable goal. In pursuing that goal, six in ten customers expressed support for a measured approach that balances rates, reliability, and environmental responsibility. The Board’s decision to continue pursuing the 2030 goal reflects this balance. It recognizes that while early investments are necessary now, many challenges remain and future decisions will need to be made. The Board has provided clarity to keep the public interest at the center while balancing priorities for Rochester’s future.
RPU has already taken significant steps toward this goal, including authorizing development of Mount Simon Station to support system reliability and securing 245 megawatts of wind resources that will come online before 2030.
“Today’s action reflects our dedication to Rochester’s future,” said RPU General Manager Tim McCollough. “We are investing wisely to make sure our community enjoys reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy for years to come.”
Investments in Reliability and Sustainability
To maintain and improve utility services, RPU is planning rate adjustments in 2026 and 2027. For the average residential customer, this means an increase of about $2 per month in water and $6 per month in electric service.
These investments will allow RPU to:
- Replace century-old water infrastructure.
- Strengthen the electric grid with vegetation management and equipment upkeep.
- Expand renewable energy resources while federal tax credits are available.
- Continue modernizing with advanced metering technology.
Community members will have additional opportunities to provide feedback at public meetings this fall before Rochester City Council makes a final decision in December.
About Rochester Public Utilities
As the municipal utility of Rochester, Minn., RPU provides high-quality and reliable electricity to more than 61,000 customers, along with water services to over 42,000 customers. RPU is governed by a five-member Utility Board and the Rochester City Council. The utility continually explores innovative technologies to help customers maximize the value of the services they receive, with current initiatives including photovoltaic offerings, wind energy, energy and water-efficient equipment, and electric vehicle charging.
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