MN SF5271

Establishes a program in the Department of Commerce to provide financial incentives to local units of government that adopt SolarAPP+ software, which automates the review and permitting process for residential solar projects and solar plus energy storage system projects.

Financial incentives range from $5,000 to $20,000 per eligible permitting authority, with amounts varying based on population, number of permits issued, software integration method, and participation in other sustainability programs.

Eligible permitting authorities must have installed and made SolarAPP+ operational on their website, and may apply for incentives no earlier than an unspecified number of months after the software becomes operational.

Awards begin no later than January 1, 2025, and the Commissioner of Commerce must develop administrative procedures, provide technical assistance, and conduct education and outreach through workshops and partnerships with organizations like the League of Minnesota Cities.

Appropriates an unspecified amount from the renewable development account for authorities within a nuclear utility's service territory and from the general fund for authorities outside such territory, with the SolarAPP+ program account remaining available until July 1, 2027.