Bill > SF19

This bill addresses various requirements and provisions related to data centers in Minnesota, with several key components. It establishes a formal definition of a "data center" as a facility designed to have at least 100 megawatts of load primarily used for storing, managing, and processing digital data, including associated infrastructure. The bill introduces a new category of "qualified large-scale data center" and creates a tiered annual fee structure based on peak electrical demand, ranging from $2 million to $5 million, which will be deposited into an energy and conservation account. The legislation requires various state agencies to coordinate data center permitting inquiries through the Minnesota Business First Stop Program and establishes new water appropriation evaluation processes for large data centers. Additionally, the bill provides tax exemptions for qualified data centers, including sales tax exemptions for enterprise information technology equipment and computer software, with requirements such as minimum investment thresholds and sustainable design certifications. The bill also mandates that the Public Utilities Commission establish special tariffs and service agreements for very large customers, with provisions to ensure water conservation, energy efficiency, and protection of other utility customers' interests. Notably, the bill includes labor provisions requiring prevailing wage rates for construction and specific sustainable design certifications within three years of a facility being placed in service.

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF0019&ssn=1&y=2025