Local government and Tribal approval for all solar projects required.

HF 1707 requires all solar energy projects in Minnesota to obtain written approval from every local government (like cities or counties) and Minnesota Tribal government with jurisdiction over the project site before construction can begin. This applies to every solar project, regardless of size, including those previously exempt from commission permitting under 50 megawatts. The bill amends state law to mandate this approval step during the preapplication phase, requiring developers to provide notice and seek feedback from affected local and Tribal entities at least 30 days before submitting formal applications. This directly affects solar developers, local governments, and Tribal governments by adding a mandatory approval requirement to the project development process.