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 if the applicant demonstrates that these regulations are unreasonably restrictive based on 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 governments when applications for electric transmission facilities are filed.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a requirement for the commission to notify relevant local authorities about proposed corridors and prohibits scheduling public hearings until at least 45 days after notification. Local requirements must be submitted to the commission at least ten days before the hearing, or they will be considered superseded. 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
Enrollment: 49-22-16