Bill > HF2862

This bill amends Minnesota's existing energy regulations to create a new exemption from certificate of need requirements for electric generating facilities primarily intended to provide power to data centers. The bill defines a data center as a physical location that stores and processes large amounts of digital data using networked computer servers. Specifically, the exemption applies to new or modified electric generating facilities that will provide power to a data center, provided they comply with a specific section of state law related to renewable energy. The bill adds this exemption to an existing list of situations where electric utilities do not need to obtain a certificate of need from the state, which currently includes various types of power generation and transmission projects like small cogeneration facilities, renewable energy systems, and transmission line upgrades. This change appears designed to make it easier and potentially faster for data centers to secure dedicated power generation, which could support Minnesota's efforts to attract technology infrastructure and businesses.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF2862&ssn=0&y=2025