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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 purpose of this bill is to require approvals from local governments and Tribal governments for all solar projects irrespective of their capacity. This measure amplifies local oversight in the development and implementation of solar energy projects within Minnesota.

Main Provisions

  • Pre-application Coordination: Before submitting an application to the commission, solar project developers must notify local governments and Minnesota Tribal governments at least 30 days in advance. This notification should include details about the proposed solar project and allow these entities an opportunity to provide feedback or coordinate their involvement.

  • Approval Requirement: Every proposed solar project, irrespective of its capacity, must receive approval from all local government units and Tribal governments with jurisdiction over the proposed project site. This ensures that local authorities have a say in energy projects affecting their regions.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

  • The bill amends previous statutes by introducing a new requirement for obtaining local and Tribal government approval for solar energy systems regardless of their size. Previously, some smaller projects could be constructed without such oversight. This changes the regulatory landscape by increasing local and Tribal governmental influence over solar energy projects.

Relevant Terms

  • Solar projects
  • Local government approval
  • Tribal government approval
  • Energy regulations
  • Minnesota statutes amendments

Bill text versions

Actions

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

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Requirement to notify tribal governments about solar project proposals."
      ],
      "removed": [
        "N/A"
      ],
      "summary": "This bill involves notifying Minnesota Tribal governments as defined under section 10.65 before filing an application for energy projects.",
      "modified": [
        "N/A"
      ]
    },
    "citation": "10.65"
  }
]

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