Ending our dependence upon fossil fuels must be a top priority. Minnesotans deserve clean electricity generated from carbon-free and renewable energy sources like the wind and sun. We have the resources, know-how, and ability to replace coal and other polluting fossil fuels with clean energy generation—a shift that would help avoid climate change on a global scale and reduce serious pollution-related illness here at home. As the energy transition continues and we electrify everything that we can—like home heating, transportation, and more—it’s crucial that the electricity we’re using comes from clean sources.

Organizations like Fresh Energy are working hard on large, impactful state and federal clean energy policies, but in the meantime, we are also going plant-by-plant to secure closure dates. Closing a plant is incredibly complicated, with significant impacts on local communities; Fresh Energy is using data-based research and policy to set as-soon-as-possible closure dates that meet the urgent challenge of our climate crisis while ensuring that utilities, workers, and communities have the time and resources necessary to plan a successful transition. Use coalcountdownmn.com to track the status of coal plants operating in Minnesota, as well as plants in nearby states that are currently serving Minnesota customers.