This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 216B.243, subdivision 8, to update the exemptions to the certificate of need requirement for various energy-related projects. The amendments include the addition of new exemptions for upgrading or rebuilding existing electric lines with a capacity of less than 100 kilovolts to high-voltage transmission lines of 115 kilovolts, provided they primarily use existing rights-of-way. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the relocation of existing high-voltage right-of-way is exempt as long as new structures are not designed for higher voltage operation.

The bill also modifies existing language by removing the term "high voltage" from a specific exemption and replacing it with "high-voltage." Furthermore, it retains exemptions for cogeneration facilities, high-voltage transmission lines serving single customers, energy storage systems, and repowering projects for large wind and solar energy systems, among others. These changes aim to streamline the regulatory process for energy projects while ensuring that certain conditions are met to maintain efficiency and safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 216B.243