PUC approves Minnesota Power’s Integrated Resource Plan with modifications and directs utility toward more cost‑effective investments
St. Paul, MN — On Thursday, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (Commission) approved a modified version of Minnesota Power’s 2025–2039 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) and directed the Company to move forward with a set of near‑term actions that will support reliable, affordable service for customers. The Commission also declined to approve Minnesota Power’s request for a large new gas plant, finding that the Company did not demonstrate a clear need for the project and that approving it now would expose customers to unnecessary costs years before it might be required.
Instead, the Commission approved a package of near‑term actions – supported by clean‑energy organizations, labor partners, state agencies and Minnesota Power – that will help the utility continue delivering cost‑effective and reliable power while preserving flexibility for future decisions. These actions include:
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Refueling Boswell Unit 3 with natural gas by 2030
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Deferring a decision on Boswell Unit 4 while requiring an independent study of future options
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Adding 600 MW of new resources by 2030, including wind and battery storage
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Adding 100 MW of demand response by 2028
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Developing 100–150 MW of additional customer‑based resources by 2030 through new programs
The Commission emphasized the importance of Boswell to the region’s workforce and host communities. Refueling Unit 3 allows Minnesota Power to maintain reliability while supporting local jobs, and the required independent review of Unit 4’s future ensures that any next steps are guided by careful analysis and community engagement. The Commission also required Minnesota Power to complete important transmission upgrades near the Hibbard plant, creating a more resilient system for Duluth and surrounding communities.
PUC Chair Katie Sieben said, “The Commission appreciates Minnesota Power’s continued commitment to delivering reliable, affordable service. This plan supports local workers and communities and strengthens the utility’s path toward an increasingly clean energy system.”
Next steps: Minnesota Power must file a new, more comprehensive IRP by December 31, 2027, giving the Commission and the public an updated look at their long‑term plans and alternatives.
For more information about integrated resource planning, visit the Commission’s website.
About
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.
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