Minnesota Approves 475 MW Solar, Storage Projects Expansion

• Minnesota greenlights 475 MW solar projects with battery storage, boosting grid stability and advancing clean energy goals.

The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission has approved two solar projects totaling 475 MW, including a battery storage component. The 325-MW Iron Pine Solar Project in Pine County, proposed by Swift Current Energy, received a site permit and will connect to the grid via a 1-mile, 230-kV tie-line and a 300-foot, 161-kV transmission line to an Xcel Energy substation.

The Northern Crescent Solar Project, proposed by Primergy Solar, will generate up to 150 MW and include a 50-MW battery storage system, with a final interconnection agreement expected by late 2025. The approvals followed environmental reviews and public engagement, aiming to enhance grid stability and support Minnesota's energy goals.

What are the details of Minnesota's newly approved 475 MW solar projects?

• The Iron Pine Solar Project is expected to cover approximately 1,500 acres of land in Pine County.
  
• Swift Current Energy plans to begin construction of the Iron Pine Solar Project in 2024, with operations expected to commence by 2025.
  
• The project is anticipated to create hundreds of construction jobs and several permanent positions once operational.
  
• The Northern Crescent Solar Project will be located in western Minnesota, spanning multiple counties.
  
• Primergy Solar's Northern Crescent Project includes advanced battery storage technology to store excess energy and release it during peak demand periods.
  
• The battery storage system for the Northern Crescent Project is designed to enhance grid reliability and integrate more renewable energy into the system.
  
• Both projects are part of Minnesota's broader strategy to achieve 100% clean energy by 2050.
  
• The projects are expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions, contributing to the state's environmental and sustainability goals.
  
• Local communities are anticipated to benefit from increased tax revenues and potential community investment funds associated with the projects.
• The projects underwent rigorous environmental assessments to minimize impacts on local wildlife and ecosystems.