This bill amends subsection 2 of section 49-22-16 of the North Dakota Century Code, focusing on the siting of energy conversion and transmission facilities. Key changes include the stipulation that a certificate of site compatibility for electric energy conversion facilities cannot override local land use, zoning, or building regulations. Additionally, it establishes that permits for electric transmission facilities within designated corridors can supersede local regulations only if the applicant demonstrates that such regulations are unreasonably restrictive based on existing technology, costs, or consumer needs. The bill also mandates that applicants comply with road use agreements from affected political subdivisions and outlines a notification process for local authorities when applications for electric transmission facilities are filed.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a requirement for the commission to notify relevant local authorities and allows them to submit a list of local requirements, which must be provided at least ten days before a public hearing. If local requirements are not submitted in time, they will be overridden by the commission. The bill also includes a retroactive application clause, making it effective from January 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 49-22-16
Adopted by the House Energy and Natural Resources Committee: 49-22-16
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 49-22-16