HF 2816

as introduced - 91st Legislature (2019 - 2020) Posted on 04/04/2019 02:16pm

A bill for an act
relating to energy; imposing a moratorium of construction and expansion of
community solar gardens outside the 11-county metropolitan area; requiring a
report.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

Section 1. new text begin RURAL COMMUNITY SOLAR GARDEN MORATORIUM.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin Moratorium imposed. new text end

new text begin Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section
216B.1641, an existing or prospective solar garden owner is prohibited from constructing
a new community solar garden or expanding an existing community solar garden until
March 1 in the year after the date the commissioner of commerce submits the report under
subdivision 2 or July 1, 2021, whichever is later. This subdivision applies only to proposed
or existing community solar gardens located outside the 11-county metropolitan area, as
defined by Minnesota Statutes, section 115A.1314, subdivision 2.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Impacts study new text end new text begin . new text end

new text begin The commissioner of commerce must conduct a study that
measures the impact community solar gardens have on utility ratepayers and on the
communities where the community solar garden facilities are located. The study must
consider the impact of solar gardens on: (1) rates paid by customers of utilities participating
in the community solar garden program; (2) local economic conditions, including land
prices, job availability, and overall economic outcomes; (3) existing structures and land
uses, including residences, businesses, and farm land; (4) environmental factors; and (5)
other issues the commissioner deems important. The study must also consider and recommend
what constitutes an adequate setback or distance solar garden facilities must be located from
residences and businesses. Once completed, the report must be submitted to the house of
representatives and senate committees with jurisdiction over energy, agriculture, and jobs
and economic development.
new text end