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. It establishes that a certificate of site compatibility for electric energy conversion facilities cannot override local land use, zoning, or building regulations. Additionally, it clarifies 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 technology, cost, or consumer needs. The bill also mandates that applicants comply with road use agreements from affected political subdivisions and requires the commission to notify local authorities about applications for electric transmission facilities.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a requirement for the commission to notify relevant townships, cities, and counties about proposed corridors and sets a minimum waiting period of 45 days before scheduling public hearings. Local requirements must be submitted to the commission at least ten days prior to the hearing, or they will be considered superseded. The bill also includes a provision for retroactive application, 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
Enrollment: 49-22-16