Minnesota Lawmakers Approve Interconnection Ombudsperson to Resolve Solar Disputes and Streamline Grid Connections.

Minnesota state lawmakers have passed legislation to hire an interconnection ombudsperson to help resolve solar interconnection disputes. The position would provide clean energy companies with information, guidance, and mediation on connecting projects of 10 megawatts and less to the grid. The legislation follows years of complaints by solar companies about disputes with utilities, Xcel Energy, which have led to years-long delays for some projects to connect. The ombUDsperson will track disputes and serve as a mediator between customers and investor-owned utilities, reviewing policies, convene stakeholder groups, and assessing ways to reduce conflicts. The initial $150 budget for the position has not yet been posted.