The Minnesota Energy Infrastructure Permitting Act is designed to streamline the permitting process for large energy infrastructure projects in Minnesota, establishing the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) as the primary authority for site and route selection. The bill introduces new definitions for energy facilities, including "large energy infrastructure facility," "energy storage system," and "high-voltage transmission line," while mandating that applicants obtain power purchase agreements before construction. It emphasizes coordinated environmental reviews, requiring an environmental impact statement for each proposed facility and ensuring public engagement through community meetings. The legislation also outlines the conditions under which permits can be issued, prohibits construction without necessary permits, and includes provisions for ongoing jurisdiction over permits.

Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes related to energy infrastructure, raising the threshold for high-voltage transmission lines from 200 kilovolts to 300 kilovolts and introducing a carbon-free energy standard alongside the renewable energy standard. It allows for local government approval for certain smaller projects, exempting them from needing a permit from the PUC, and mandates that the commission adopt rules to ensure compliance with the new provisions. The bill also includes provisions for public participation, reporting requirements, and the establishment of a framework for coordinated project plans to enhance efficiency and transparency in the permitting process. Overall, the legislation aims to modernize the regulatory framework for energy projects while ensuring environmental considerations and stakeholder engagement are prioritized.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 216B.2421, 216B.243, 216A.037, 216E.08, 216E.11, 216E.13, 216E.14, 216E.15, 216E.16, 216E.18
1st Engrossment: 216B.2421, 216B.243, 216A.037, 216E.08, 216E.11, 216E.13, 216E.14, 216E.15, 216E.16, 216E.18
2nd Engrossment: 216B.2421, 216B.243, 216A.037, 216E.08, 216E.11, 216E.13, 216E.14, 216E.15, 216E.16, 216E.18
3rd Engrossment: 216B.2421, 216B.243, 216A.037, 216E.08, 216E.11, 216E.13, 216E.14, 216E.15, 216E.16, 216E.18
4th Engrossment: 216B.2421, 216B.243, 216A.037, 216E.08, 216E.11, 216E.13, 216E.14, 216E.15, 216E.16, 216E.18
5th Engrossment: 216B.2421, 216B.243, 216A.037, 216E.08, 216E.11, 216E.13, 216E.14, 216E.15, 216E.16, 216E.18