(Minnesota Ag Connection) – By Scout Nelson

In May, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz highlighted the state’s progress in renewable energy, with over half of its power now coming from renewables. However, Walz acknowledged that outdated permitting laws were hindering further progress towards the state’s 100% clean energy goal.

To address these obstacles, Walz signed a new law that streamlines the permitting process for clean energy projects, such as solar, wind, storage, and transmission. The law removes the need for developers to prove that their projects are necessary for Minnesota’s energy system and eliminates the requirement to study alternative sites, thereby reducing potential opposition.

This reform is seen as a major step forward in the clean energy transition, not only for Minnesota but potentially for other states as well. Amelia Vohs, from the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy, expressed hope that Walz’s efforts could inspire similar changes at the federal level, saying, “If Gov. Walz becomes our VP, I hope he could help bring some of this thinking to the federal level.”

While replicating these changes on a national scale might be challenging, other states could follow Minnesota’s example in simplifying their renewable energy permitting processes. The success of this initiative is expected to cut permitting times in half, significantly accelerating the development of clean energy infrastructure.

Governor Walz’s leadership in this area has set a precedent, showing that with the right reforms, significant progress can be made towards achieving ambitious clean energy goals.