MN HF2019

Wind energy conversion systems under 25 megawatts of nameplate capacity qualify as small systems, allowing owners to elect this classification in writing and submit applications for zoning approval to the relevant county or counties.

Owners electing small system status must notify the Public Utilities Commission at the time of submitting the zoning election to the county.

Wind systems exceeding 5 megawatts located wholly or partially within a wind access buffer adjacent to state outdoor recreation lands are classified as large systems, requiring Department of Natural Resources negotiation with the owner regarding siting.

The Public Utilities Commission must issue annual reports to legislative committees with jurisdiction over energy and natural resource policy documenting any variances applied for and not granted for systems under the large system classification.

The effective date is the day following final enactment.