FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 10, 2026
Joint Statement from the Minnesota Solar Energy Industries Association (MnSEIA) and the Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA)
The Minnesota Solar Energy Industries Association and the Coalition for Community Solar Access commend the passage of legislation naming the state’s community solar program the Melissa Hortman Community Solar Garden Program.
This is a meaningful and lasting tribute to a leader whose vision and commitment helped establish one of the most impactful and widely recognized community solar programs in the country. Speaker Hortman understood early on that expanding access to locally generated, affordable clean energy required thoughtful policy design, persistence, and a willingness to lead.
Minnesota’s community solar program has become a national model—opening access to solar for tens of thousands of customers, driving private investment, supporting job creation, and delivering real savings to families and businesses. That success did not happen by accident. It was built through deliberate leadership and a clear focus on outcomes.
Naming this program in her honor appropriately recognizes that legacy. It reflects not only the strength of the program itself, but the enduring impact of public servants who work to make energy more accessible, more affordable, and more equitable.
As Minnesota continues to build on this foundation, we remain committed to working with policymakers, utilities, and stakeholders to ensure the program continues to evolve and deliver for customers across the state.
The Melissa Hortman Community Solar Garden Program will stand as both a recognition of past leadership and a reminder of what is possible when that leadership is matched with action.
