Your Guide to the New Minnesota Energy Infrastructure Permitting Act, Chapter 216I
By Shannon Hansen, Permitting Lead
The Minnesota Energy Infrastructure Permitting Act 216I will take effect on July 1, 2025, ushering in a new era for energy development in the state. This legislation brings significant changes that renewable energy developers should be aware of, and Westwood is here to help you navigate this updated framework.
Key Highlights of the Act
1. Simplified Permitting Process
One of the most notable changes introduced by the Act is the simplification of the permitting process. The legislation aims to reduce bureaucratic hurdles, making it easier for energy projects to get off the ground while still maintaining rigorous environmental standards. This streamlined approach will help developers save time and resources, allowing quicker project initiation and completion.
2. Enhanced Collaboration
The Act enhances collaboration between state agencies and developers. By promoting greater cooperation, the legislation ensures that projects are both economically viable and environmentally responsible. This collaborative spirit is essential for addressing the complexities of renewable energy development and will lead to more efficient project execution.
3. Focus on Renewable Energy
With a strong focus on clean energy, the Act supports Minnesota's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable energy solutions. This focus aligns with the growing demand for renewable energy sources and positions Minnesota as a leader in the transition to a sustainable energy future.
Extensive Permitting Experience
We are excited about the opportunities this new legislation presents. Our team has successfully supported over 30 permit applications to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission for wind energy, solar energy, battery storage, wind repower, and transmission. We understand the intricacies of the permitting process and are committed to guiding our clients through these changes to ensure their projects meet all necessary requirements.
Our comprehensive permitting services are designed to streamline the permit process, allowing you to focus on what you do best—developing innovative energy solutions. Our team of experts supports applications by providing flexible and forward-thinking design solutions to meet the energy needs of tomorrow.
If you need assistance with the upcoming changes to Minnesota’s Energy Infrastructure Permitting Act, please contact our permitting lead, Shannon Hansen. Together, we can drive innovation and sustainability in Minnesota's energy landscape.
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About the Author
Shannon Hansen, Permitting Lead, brings 25 years of experience in the environmental field, working in environmental consulting and government. Her work has involved environmental review and permitting of utility-scale solar and wind projects, oil and gas pipelines, liquefied natural gas terminals, and residential/commercial/industrial developments. She has managed and prepared numerous state and county permits, including Site/Route Permits, CPCNs, EIS, EA, and EAW documents. She has extensive experience working collaboratively with clients, federal, state, and local agencies, including the FERC, USACE, PUC/PSC, DNR, counties, and municipalities. Shannon excels at staying on top of regulatory information and navigating the regulatory environment from local to federal levels and environmental regulations. With over 12 years at Westwood, Shannon has shown a keen eye for detail and a commitment to excellence. She has become a trusted resource for clients seeking guidance through intricate permitting landscapes.
