Governor Tim Walz visited the Ben Fowke Wind Energy Center in Dexter for a ceremonial bill signing for legislation that will shorten and streamline the energy permitting process. Reforms are estimated to result in time savings of 9-12 months for permitting and building renewable energy and transmission projects, according to a release from the governor's office. More efficient and streamlined permitting processes will aid in the state’s transition to 100 percent clean electricity by 2040.
The legislation streamlines the energy permitting process by creating two separate review processes: a standard review for smaller wind and solar projects and power lines and a more intensive review for larger projects, such as major transmission lines or power plants. The legislation also modifies rules governing certificates of need and site and route permits for large electric power plants and high-voltage transmission lines. The modifications remove roadblocks for renewable power developers, making it easier to build in Minnesota.
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