ST. PAUL — The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) approved Xcel Energy’s Mankato to Mississippi River 345-kilovolt (kV) Transmission Line Project. This project is a foundational element of the Midcontinent Independent System Operator’s (MISO) Long Range Transmission Projects Tranche 1, a regional portfolio developed to ensure a reliable, resilient, and cost-effective energy delivery system as the region’s power generation mix evolves.
The new infrastructure will relieve critical congestion on the 345 kV transmission system in southern Minnesota and Wisconsin. In addition, the project will enable more renewable energy to flow to customers, while reducing costs. Over the next 40 years Xcel Energy projects it will generate $3.8 billion in economic savings.
“This project is a cornerstone of our regional energy strategy,” said Commissioner Joseph Sullivan. “Transmission is the backbone of a modern electrical system. As we add new generation resources, these lines will ensure power can move to where it’s needed – keeping the system reliable, affordable, and ready for the future.”
The approved project consists of a 130-mile 345 kV line stretching from Mankato to the Mississippi River near Kellogg, as well as a 20-mile 161 kV line located near Rochester. Following the recommendation of an Administrative Law Judge, the Commission selected a route which minimizes local impacts by utilizing existing transmission corridors and reducing the need for new right-of-way requirements.
Public feedback was a central factor in the approval process. Based on input from residents and stakeholders during scoping meetings, the Commission required Xcel Energy to explore route adjustments in Walcot Township in Rice County and in Blue Earth County to better protect homes, prime farmland, and local developments.
To safeguard Minnesota’s natural resources, the PUC mandated several environmental protections, including:
- Avian flight diverters to prevent bird collisions.
- Wildlife-friendly erosion control and a comprehensive vegetation management plan.
- Ban on specific dust control products known to be harmful to ecosystems.
- Tree replacement plan for the trees removed during construction.
The project supports Minnesota’s Carbon-Free Standard, requiring 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040. Xcel Energy estimates the line will help cut carbon emissions by nearly 300 million metric tons over 40 years.
For more information visit the project website.
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission regulates three cornerstone service industries in Minnesota's economy: electricity, natural gas and telephone. The Commission’s mission is to create and maintain a regulatory environment that ensures safe, adequate, and efficient utility services at fair, reasonable rates consistent with State telecommunications and energy policies. It does so by providing independent, consistent, professional, and comprehensive oversight and regulation of utility service providers. Learn more at mn.gov/puc.
