Energy Infrastructure Permitting

The Energy Infrastructure Permitting Act is a new legislative framework passed in 2024 designed to streamline and enhance the permitting process for energy infrastructure projects in Minnesota. 

Energy Storage
Solar
Wind
Transmission Lines
Pipelines
Power Plants

The Energy Infrastructure Permitting Act establishes clear guidelines for evaluating and approving site and route permits for energy facilities while ensuring environmental and community considerations are addressed. 

The Act took effect on July 1, 2025, requiring all new applications submitted after this date to comply with the updated regulations. 

Discover, Track, and Comment on Energy Projects Proposed for Your Community

Key project dates and information

Docket#Project NameTypeDate
23-425Benton SolarHearing - Evidentiary8/28/2025
24-349Bent Tree North Wind Farm - The project will include an up to 153-MW large wind energy conversion system in Freeborn, Harland and Bath townships in Freeborn County. Public comment is open until July 9.Public Comment7/9/2025

24-406

24-407

Crane Energy and Sandhill Energy Storage Systems –  Crane and Sandhill site permit applications to construct and operate up to 200-MW alternating current battery energy storage systems and associated facilities in Olmsted County. Public comment is open until July 10.Public Comment7/10/2025

Visit the PUC full calendar

Other Resources

Other resources regarding permitting, our process and more.

Certificate Of Need

Certain large electric generating facilities and large high-voltage transmission lines are required by law to obtain a certificate of need

Learn more

Permit changes

The PUC has the authority to amend, revoke or transfer a permit for a large energy infrastructure project.

Learn more

Permitting guidance

This page provides essential guidance documents and resources for project proposers navigating the energy infrastructure permitting process.

Learn more

Landowner Rights

If a utility company plans to build transmission lines on or near your property, understanding your rights as a landowner is essential. 

Learn more

Ways to stay informed

You and your community’s participation in the environmental review and permitting process is important. The PUC cannot make informed decisions without your help.

Project webpage

The PUC will create a project webpage that contains project information, documents and maps. There is a project manager for every project; they’re listed on the webpage. Call or email with questions at any time. 

Project mailing lists

Stay informed about project updates by joining the project mailing list. Subscribers will receive important notifications, including new documents, maps, and key information. A project manager is available for each project, and their contact details can be found on the project webpage. Feel free to reach out via phone or email with any questions at any time.

Email subscription

If you would like to be informed every time a new document is entered in the eDocket, you can sign up for an email subscription. Sign up for an email subscription. 

Learn about eDockets

All of the documents concerning the project – from the proposer’s application, to your comments, to the PUC’s decision – are placed in an electronic file folder, the project’s eDocket.  Learn how to read and access eDockets.

Recent Projects

Stay informed on the latest projects by checking out some of the highlighted projects below.

View All Projects