Bill > LD711

This bill addresses renewable energy development by requiring the Public Utilities Commission to establish a new process for appealing good-cause exemptions related to distributed generation resources (small-scale electricity generation projects) on nonfertile land. Specifically, the bill mandates that delays caused by site inspections and local government approvals be automatically considered external delays outside of a developer's control. The bill provides a clear definition of "nonfertile land" as areas that cannot be used for agricultural production without substantial modification, which includes land unsuitable for growing crops, raising livestock, poultry, producing dairy, or growing sod. The new rules will allow developers to appeal exemption denials by providing documentation about project delays, and the commission may consult with the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry when creating these rules. This legislation aims to streamline the process for renewable energy projects on lands that are not suitable for farming, potentially helping the state meet its climate goals while protecting agricultural land.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=711&snum=132