COHASSET — The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission has approved a site permit for Minnesota Power's Boswell Solar Project, an up-to-85-megawatt solar facility in Itasca County.
The Friday, Jan. 16, announcement stated the commission also granted a route permit for the associated 2.5-mile, 230-kilovolt transmission line. The line will connect the project to the existing Boswell Energy Center Substation.
The project will be partially located in Cohasset, partially within Deer Lake Township, and partially within the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Reservation, covering about 1,300 acres. About 500 of those acres will be occupied by solar panels and associated infrastructure.
The PUC stated its decision followed a comprehensive environmental review and public engagement process. In response to feedback from nearby residents, tribal governments and state agencies, the PUC established some permit conditions.
These include requiring a detailed visual screening plan to address potential visual impacts to neighboring properties, as well as engagement with the Leech Lake Band on economic and workforce development opportunities.
The Boswell Solar Project is a key component of Minnesota Power's Integrated Resource Plan, which requires the utility to procure up to 300 MW of regional solar energy. This project delivers 85 MW toward that requirement and supports Minnesota's mandate to achieve 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040.
Construction is expected to begin early this year, with commercial operation anticipated in late 2027.
Full project details are available on the Boswell Solar Project webpage.
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