New transmission line approved in Minnesota
The project will connect southwest Minnesota to Sherco Plant in Becker.
Image for illustration purposes
USA, Minnesota, Minneapolis: Xcel Energy has received state approval for the construction of a major new utility transmission line. The 280 km (175 mi) Minnesota Energy Connection line will link electricity generated in southwest Minnesota to the electric grid at the Sherco plant in Becker.
Scheduled for completion in 2028, the line will deliver enough power to supply over one million homes throughout the Upper Midwest. Xcel Energy states the project not only strengthens its ongoing investment in the Becker community but also enhances the potential for future energy development in southwest Minnesota.
With approval granted, the company will now move forward with detailed design and engineering work, as well as begin negotiations with landowners to acquire the necessary easements for the transmission route.
Construction is expected to begin in early 2026 and conclude by 2028. Additional substation infrastructure related to the project will continue to be built through 2031.
In a related development, Xcel Energy also received approval to construct a new natural gas-fired power plant near the southern end of the transmission line in Lyon County, further supporting regional energy capacity.
Source: WJON News
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