St. Paul, Minnesota — Continuing its support for proposals assisting in Minnesota’s economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (Commission) approved a $40.9 million investment proposed by Minnesota Power to build three solar facilities in Northern Minnesota. The Laskin, Sylvan, and Duluth city solar arrays will generate 21 megawatt (MW) of power using Minnesota-made panels and provide system-wide benefits while supporting the local economy.

“At the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, the Commission asked the regulated utilities to consider accelerating planned investments to support Minnesota’s ongoing economic recovery. Speeding up the construction of these three solar facilities, which will procure local labor, including a regional solar panel manufacturer, will continue advancing growth in northern Minnesota,” said Commissioner Joseph Sullivan.

The solar project proposed for St. Louis County will be located at the Laskin Energy Center, a former coal-generation facility, to continue creating employment and economic opportunities for this host community.

“The construction of these three solar facilities support the ongoing economic recovery of northern Minnesota. This project will boost local investment while balancing public and private interests in the procurement of local talent and manufacturing to continue delivering reliable energy for Minnesotans living in the region,” said Commissioner Valerie Means.

About

The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission regulates three cornerstone service industries in Minnesota's economy: electricity, natural gas, and telephone service. 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

Please contact Will Seuffert, 651-201-2217 or will.seuffert@state.mn.us if you have any questions.

###