Subdivision 1. Definitions. (a) For purposes of this section, the following terms have the meanings given.

(b) "Major renovation" means a substantial addition to an existing building, or a substantial change to the interior configuration or the energy system of an existing building.

(c) "Solar energy system" means photovoltaic devices alone or installed in conjunction with a solar thermal system.

(d) "Photovoltaic device " has the meaning given in section 216C.06, subdivision 16.

(e) "Solar thermal system" has the meaning given "qualifying solar thermal project" in section 216B.2411, subdivision 2, paragraph (e).

(f) "State building" means a building whose construction or renovation is paid wholly or in part by the state from the bond proceeds fund.

Subd. 2. Solar energy system. (a) As provided in paragraphs (b) and (c), a project for the construction or major renovation of a state building, after the completion of a cost-benefit analysis, may include installation of solar energy systems of up to 300 kilowatts capacity on, adjacent, or in proximity to the state building.

(b) The capacity of a solar energy system must be less than 300 kilowatts to the extent necessary to match the electrical load of the building, or the capacity must be no more than necessary to keep the costs for the installation below the five percent maximum set by paragraph (c).

(c) The cost of the solar energy system must not exceed five percent of the appropriations from the bond proceeds fund for the construction or renovation of the state building. Purchase and installation of a solar thermal system may account for no more than 25 percent of the cost of a solar energy system installation.

(d) A project subject to this section is ineligible to receive a rebate for the installation of a solar energy system under section 116C.7791 or from any utility.

History: 2012 c 293 s 32; 2012 c 298 s 6; 2017 c 94 art 10 s 2