A reliable and affordable supply of electricity is critical to all businesses regardless of industry, size or location. That can be accomplished by increasing conservation, base-load generation and transmission system capacity.

Electricity is a significant operating cost for Minnesota businesses. In 2004, Minnesotans spent $3.95 billion on electricity with the state's commercial/industrial customers accounting for $2.3 billion. Minnesota ratepayers have begun to pay significantly more for electricity. Statewide average electricity rates typically mask high rates paid by many business customers. Although Minnesota's commercial rates appear to be low relative to national averages, rates vary substantially based on which utility provides the service and where the customer is located.