(A) Community solar energy systems. Roof- or ground-mount solar energy systems, may be either accessory or primary use, designed to supply energy for off-site uses on the distribution grid, consistent with M.S. § 216B.1641 or successor statute, as it may be amended from time to time.
(1) Rooftop community systems are permitted only in the Industrial Districts.
(2) Ground-mount community solar energy systems are allowed only in the Industrial Districts and are allowed as conditional uses.
(3) An interconnection agreement must be completed with the electric utility in whose service territory the system is located.
(4) All structures must comply with setback, height and coverage limitations for the district in which the system is located.
(5) Ground-mount systems must comply with all required standards for structures in the district in which the system is located.
(B) Solar farms.
(1) General provisions.
(a) Solar farms are only allowed in the Industrial Districts.
(b) Solar farms require a conditional use permit.
(c) Solar farms are subject to the city’s stormwater management and erosion and sediment control provisions and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements.
(2) Foundations. A qualified engineer shall certify that the foundation and design of the solar panels racking and support is within accepted professional standards, given local soil and climate conditions.
(3) Power and communication lines. Power and communication lines running between banks of solar panels and to nearby electric substations or interconnections with buildings shall be buried underground. Exemptions may be granted by the city in instances where shallow bedrock, water courses or other elements of the natural landscape interfere with the ability to bury lines, or distance makes undergrounding infeasible, at the discretion of the Zoning Administrator.
(4) Site plan required. A detailed site plan for both existing and proposed conditions must be submitted, showing location of all solar arrays, other structures, property lines, rights-of-way, service roads, floodplains, wetlands and other protected natural resources, topography, electric equipment and all other characteristics requested by the city. The site plan should also show all zoning districts and overlay districts.
(5) Aviation protection. For solar farms located within 500 feet of an airport or within the A or B safety zones of an airport, the applicant must complete and provide the results of the Solar Glare Hazard Analysis Tool (SGHAT) for the Airport Traffic Control Tower cab and final approach paths, consistent with the Interim Policy, FAA Review of Solar Energy Projects on Federally Obligated Airports, or most recent version adopted by the FAA.
(6) Agricultural protection. Solar farms must comply with site assessment or soil identification standards that are intended to protect agricultural soils.
(7) Proper maintenance. All solar installations shall be maintained according to industry standards and shall be in working order for the duration of its useful life.
(Prior Code, § 12-230) (Ord. 03-2015, passed 8-18-2015) Penalty, see § 153.999