Energy Infrastructure Permitting Reform

Summary: The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) received funds for the discovery, design, prototyping, and user experience development of a technology solution to efficiently and transparently implement the Minnesota Energy Infrastructure Permitting Act. This significant legislation aims to expedite the approval process for clean energy projects. 

The technology solution supports the following functionalities: 

• Public tracking of application status 
• Enhanced visibility of public comment opportunities 
• Permit lifecycle management
• Internal project management 
• Dynamic reporting on permitted facilities and facility data
• Compliance tracking 
• Enhanced public access to key documents with a permit docket’s record

This investment will help create a streamlined and user-friendly system that supports the legislative mandate and promotes the efficient handling of clean energy project approvals. 

Impact: This project aided the implementation of the 2024 Minnesota Energy Infrastructure Permitting Act. The impact of this project will be reflected in streamlined permitting timelines, increased customer engagement and participation, and high user satisfaction. This technology solution will enhance transparency and efficiency, supporting clean energy project approvals and aligning with legislative goals.