S.F. No. 3255 Summary

• Wind easement agreements have an initial three-year term, extendable for an additional five years if the developer has a signed interconnection agreement or active interconnection application and meets utility-specific renewable energy standards.

• Wind project developers must comply with extension requirements throughout the entire extended term; failure to do so terminates the extension, but developers have 30 days to cure any default after receiving written notice.

• Wind easement agreements must include a specific cover letter in at least 12-point type warning landowners that the agreement may bind their land for up to eight years before turbine operation and specifying the operational term.

• Landowners may request proof of compliance in writing within 30 days after three years have passed; developers must provide evidence of continuing compliance or face violation of Minnesota Statutes section 500.30.

• If a wind project is not operational within eight years but has a signed power purchase agreement and valid building permit, the agreement may be extended for a period equal to the shorter of the power purchase agreement term or building permit term.