The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission granted authority to Minnesota Power and Great River Power’s combined Northland Reliability project.
A news release from Minnesota Power stated the $1 billion, 180-mile project from Itasca to Sherburne counties will be a jointly owned high-voltage transmission line to bolster electric reliability in central and Northern Minnesota.
The project will mostly follow existing transmission line corridors, adding 140 miles of new 345-KV double-circuit lines between the Iron Range Substation in Itasca County to Great River Energy’s Benton County Substation near St. Cloud.
Project leaders said the project supports reliable and resilient local and regional power as more renewable energy is brought online, existing power plants are retired, homes and businesses shift to electricity to power appliances and equipment, and extreme weather events occur more frequently.
“Expanding the transmission system and working together with other utilities and stakeholders is how we’re maintaining the safe and reliable service our customers and communities depend on while building the carbon-free future,” stated Dan Gunderson, vice president of transmission and distribution for Minnesota Power, in the release.
“This joint project with Great River Energy will support local reliability and enhance the regional grid as the way we generate, transmit and use electricity evolves. It also will enhance the grid’s flexibility and resiliency. We appreciate the thorough regulatory process and the input and interaction of many stakeholders to achieve the best route possible.”
Construction is expected to begin on the Benton and Sherburne county segments in late 2025, with the transmission line expected to be operational by 2030.
In addition to the transmission line, the Northland Reliability Project will expand Grand Rapids’ and St. Cloud’s substations and build new infrastructure in Crow Wing County near the existing Riverton Substation.
The two companies hosted more than 30 public hearings and meetings with stakeholders. A research study from the University of Minnesota in Duluth indicates the project will have a $2 billion impact to the state’s economy.
The state Public Utilities Commission said in the release that 85% of the project follows existing corridor, minimizing environmental and community impacts.
"The Commission's approval of the Northland Reliability Project reflects our commitment to strengthening Minnesota's electric grid while keeping costs in check for consumers,” stated PUC Commissioner Joseph Sullivan.
“By incorporating cost containment measures, we are delivering critical infrastructure upgrades while prioritizing affordability."
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