Thermal energy network plan requirements established.

This bill requires public utilities in Minnesota to create detailed plans for building thermal energy networks, which distribute heat through underground pipes to buildings. The legislation directly affects utility companies that want to construct these heating systems, mandating that they submit comprehensive service plans to the state commission. These plans must include project costs, construction schedules, customer transition strategies, and commitments to use local labor and prevailing wage standards. The bill also expands the legal definition of "public utility" to include operators of thermal energy networks, subjecting them to existing utility regulations.