What is happening
Rooftop solar can be the cornerstone of a better energy system — it puts communities in control of where their energy comes from and helps put money back in our pockets. More Minnesotans are embracing solar and taking control of where their energy comes from.
Despite the progress, solar remains out of reach for many. Stubborn costs and multi-step permitting processes can get in the way. Additionally, connecting new solar systems to our aging power grid often leads to delays and extra costs.
Bill would address solar barriers
As the legislative session concludes, Minnesota lawmakers are working on an energy bill aimed at tackling these challenges. We have an opportunity to shape this bill and make solar more accessible and affordable for all Minnesotans.
What the bill does
- Paperless expedited permitting: You need permission from your local government before you can go solar. This process can add time and hassle to going solar. The bill addresses this by helping local governments adopt an automated, online permitting system called SolarAPP+. This will enable faster and easier solar installations while ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Lowers barriers to go solar: Sometimes before you can go solar, your utility needs to make upgrades to your local electric grid. This is true in places with a lot of solar, or with aging infrastructure. Under current rules, if your system is the one that triggers the need for an upgrade, you may have to pay for it. These upgrades can cost thousands of dollars. This blocks many people from going solar. The bill addresses this by having the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) create a cost-sharing program for grid upgrades needed for small solar projects. It also establishes an ombudsperson role at the PUC to address interconnection issues and ensure fairness.
