1.1 	A bill for an act
1.2 	relating to energy; mandating inclusion of strategic tree planting as eligible for 
1.3 	direct expenditures as energy conservation improvement; amending Minnesota 
1.4 	Statutes 2007 Supplement, section 216B.241, by adding a subdivision.
1.5 	BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

1.6 	Section 1. Minnesota Statutes 2007 Supplement, section 216B.241, is amended by 
1.7 	adding a subdivision to read:
1.8 		Subd. 9.Strategic tree planting. The strategic planting of trees or shrubs around 
1.9 	homes and buildings as a shelter belt, or for other energy conservation purposes, 
1.10 	located on property provided electric or gas service by a public utility, municipal utility, 
1.11 	or cooperative electric association subject to the energy conservation improvement 
1.12 	requirements of this section, is considered an energy conservation improvement and is 
1.13 	eligible for direct expenditures and expense recovery under this section. For purposes of 
1.14 	this subdivision, "strategic" refers to the placement of trees or shrubs to obtain the most 
1.15 	advantageous impact on energy conservation for a home or building.

1.16 	EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective the day following final enactment.