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Board approves 1 MW Novel Energy solar project; discussion centers on decommissioning responsibility
Summary
The Wabasha County Board approved a conditional-use permit for a 1-megawatt commercial solar array on a 315.83-acre parcel, requiring a $250,000-per-megawatt decommissioning bond and a developer's agreement; commissioners pressed for clarity that landowners remain ultimately responsible if a developer ceases operations.
Wabasha County commissioners approved a conditional-use permit for a 1-megawatt AC commercial solar energy system on Parcel R11.00163.00 in Mount Pleasant Township, but the item prompted extended public comment and commissioner questioning about who is responsible for decommissioning if a developer dissolves or leaves.
Why it matters: The permit allows a large-scale solar installation on agricultural land and requires security to ensure decommissioning and site restoration when a project ends. County conditions require compliance with the Wabasha County Solar Energy Systems Ordinance and a developer’s agreement; the board added language during the meeting to reference the landowner’s role in that agreement.
Planning staff summarized the application filed Jan. 21, 2025: Novel Energy Solutions requested a…
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