News > CEO’s Message – June 2023

CEO’s Message – June 2023

Transmission Infrastructure Needed for Long-Term Electric Reliability

At Stearns Electric Association, we take pride knowing our member-consumers have electricity over 99% of the time. Providing reliable energy to our members is just as important to us as it is to you. As Minnesota transitions to carbon-free and renewable energy sources, expanding and upgrading the transmission system is vital for maintaining the reliable energy we have all grown accustomed to.

There are three large-scale transmission projects currently being planned in and around Stearns Electric’s service territory. Although these projects are not directly undertaken by Stearns Electric (Stearns Electric’s distribution system operates at a much lower voltage than a transmission system), they are proposed by a combination of generation and transmission companies operating in Minnesota. These projects would significantly enhance electric reliability in our area and the entire state. Further information about each project can be found below.

ALEXANDRIA TO BIG OAKS
The proposed Alexandria to Big Oaks transmission project is a joint endeavor between several Minnesota energy companies. It includes stringing a second transmission line on existing transmission structures from Alexandria to near Becker. Many of you are likely familiar with the large transmission poles already in place along Interstate 94 throughout much of Stearns County. The existing transmission route travels from Alexandria to Freeport, then deviates south of the interstate on its way toward Becker. Most of the transmission poles are already in place, though approximately 60 poles need to be installed adjacent to existing poles to facilitate the second line. Landowners near the project’s route have been notified and multiple open houses were held in April. After public review, and if approved by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC), construction is planned to begin in late 2024. This project is managed by Xcel Energy. More information can be found at https://alexandriatobigoaks.com.

MINNESOTA ENERGY CONNECTION
Xcel Energy has also proposed a new double-circuit transmission line from near Becker to Lyon County in southwest Minnesota. The Minnesota Energy Connection transmission project has multiple route options currently being considered, including routes crossing the very southeast portion of Stearns Electric’s service territory. The proposed transmission line will allow new renewable resources to be built in the wind-rich southern and southwest Minnesota regions and help carry that energy north to where it is needed. Xcel Energy will host open houses in June. A Route Permit application is expected to be filed with the Minnesota PUC in fall 2023. Additional information can be found at www.mnenergyconnection.com.

NORTHLAND RELIABILITY PROJECT
The Northland Reliability Project is a 180-mile transmission line being developed jointly by Great River Energy (GRE), our wholesale power supplier, and Minnesota Power, an electric utility based in Duluth. It starts near Grand Rapids and ends near Becker. As generation resources shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy, the Northland Reliability Project is one part of the solution to maintain reliability. It will help to safely and reliably deliver clean energy from where it is produced to where it is needed. This project has already gone through stakeholder meetings and public open houses. GRE and Minnesota Power expect to file an application with the Minnesota PUC late this summer for a Certificate of Need and Route Permit. The Northland Reliability Project does not cross through Stearns Electric’s service territory, but you can find additional information about it at
www.northlandreliabilityproject.com.

These proposed transmission infrastructure projects will have great impact on Minnesota’s energy reliability into the future. Though these projects are not managed by Stearns Electric, our members will benefit from them. As always, please reach out with questions you may have. Your Cooperative is dedicated to ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy future for all of our members

Sincerely,

Matt O’Shea
Chief Executive Officer