This bill modifies environmental and energy regulatory requirements for data centers in Minnesota, introducing new provisions that direct inquiries about data center permitting to the Minnesota Business First Stop Program. It establishes definitions for "data center" and "qualified large-scale data center," and sets conditions for large water appropriation projects linked to data centers that consume over 100 million gallons per year. Additionally, public utilities are required to offer a clean energy and capacity tariff for commercial and industrial customers, ensuring that costs for new clean energy resources are shared among participating customers. The bill also emphasizes water conservation and mandates specific solar energy generation goals for public utilities.

Moreover, the bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes to create new definitions and exemptions for large customer facilities and qualified large-scale data centers, including a new fee structure based on peak demand. Qualified large-scale data centers are exempt from contributing to energy conservation plans if they pay the required fee. The bill establishes an energy and conservation account funded by these fees, aimed at supporting energy conservation and weatherization activities for low-income programs. It also requires qualified large-scale data centers to comply with sustainable design standards within three years and includes them in tax exemption eligibility for building materials and equipment, with changes effective for sales and purchases made after June 30, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 103G.265, 103G.271, 216B.02, 216B.1691, 216B.2402, 216B.241, 297A.68, 297A.75