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SF2664 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Local government and Tribal approval for all solar projects requirement

Related bill: HF1707

AI Generated Summary

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to increase local and Tribal authority over solar energy project approvals in Minnesota. It emphasizes the importance of gaining input and consent from local and Tribal governments before proceeding with solar energy developments.

Main Provisions

  • Preapplication Notification: Applicants must notify local government units and Minnesota Tribal governments at least 30 days before applying for a solar project permit. This notification is intended to describe the proposed project and seek feedback or coordination.

  • Approval Requirement: Solar projects, regardless of their capacity, need approval from all local government units and Minnesota Tribal governments that have jurisdiction over the proposed site before an application can be filed with the commission.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

  • The bill modifies existing statutes to include a requirement for applicants to obtain explicit approval from local and Tribal authorities for any solar project, thus giving these entities more control over energy projects in their jurisdictions.

  • It clarifies that a permit from the commission is not required for certain energy projects, specifically small wind systems, and solar systems with capacities under 50 megawatts, among others. However, such projects still need local government or Tribal approval as newly stipulated.

Relevant Terms

solar project, local government approval, Tribal government approval, energy project coordination, Minnesota Statutes, renewable energy, regulatory notification, preapplication feedback, energy capacity, megawatts

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 16, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
March 16, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toEnergy, Utilities, Environment, and Climate

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Requires notice to Minnesota Tribal governments and state technical resource agencies."
      ],
      "removed": [
        ""
      ],
      "summary": "This bill amends the requirements for preapplication coordination and approval for energy permits under section 216I.05.",
      "modified": [
        "Clarifies jurisdictions for local and tribal government approval."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "216I.05",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 5"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Specifies conditions under which a permit is not required for solar energy systems."
      ],
      "removed": [
        ""
      ],
      "summary": "This bill amends the permit requirements for certain energy projects under section 216I.10.",
      "modified": [
        "Clarifies capacity requirements for energy storage and transmission systems exemptions."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "216I.10",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 1"
  }
]

Sponsors