Solar Energy Permitting

Permitting Process: 

The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (Commission) permits solar generating facilities of 50 megawatts (MW) or greater. To permit a solar energy facility, the Minnesota Department of Commerce Energy Environmental Review and Analysis (EERA) creates a report called an Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Commission. This report looks at how the proposed project might affect humans and the environment. 

While making the EA, the EERA will hold a public meeting and open a period where people can submit their comments. This helps decide what should be included in the EA and what alternatives to consider. 

Once the EA is finished, an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) will oversee a public hearing. At this hearing, people can give presentations, share evidence, and ask questions about the project. After the public comment period ends, the ALJ will write a report for the Commission. 

The Commission will then review all the information, including the EA and the ALJ’s report and public comments, to decide whether or not to grant a permit for the project.