Energy (Solar)

HB 1198 requires operators of large energy facilities (20+ megawatts average electrical demand) to seek conditional use permits from adjacent counties or municipalities. This applies only if the facility is within one mile of the adjacent political subdivision's boundary and that subdivision has adopted zoning ordinances. The bill directly affects developers of high-energy projects, such as large solar or wind installations, seeking to build near county or city borders. It adds new permit requirements to South Dakota law without changing existing zoning authority. (3 sentences)