Minnesota Public Utilities Commission Approves 414 MW Wind Facility Proposed by Plum Creek Wind, LLC 

St. Paul Minnesota –The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission approved the construction of a 414-megawatt wind facility brought forward by Plum Creek Wind, LLC. The proposed project will be located in portions of Cottonwood, Murray, and Redwood counties. This wind facility will consist of up to 74 turbines, including a 31-mile transmission line, providing system-wide benefits for ratepayers, and generating local jobs. 

“The approval of Plum Creek Wind helps the meet growing demand for emission free energy in Minnesota. The project will bring carbon-free electricity to Minnesotans and critical economic development opportunities to the region’s workforce and local communities, ” said Chair Katie Sieben. 

Plum Creek estimates the proposed wind facility will generate tax revenues ranging from $1,750,000 to $2 million for local counties. Plum Creek also estimates more than 250 personnel will be required for construction, operation, and maintenance of the project. Additionally, the Commission approved a set of requirements to minimize project construction impacts to the human and natural environment. These include an avian and bat protection plan, an archeological assessment, and a decommissioning plan to ensure sites are restored at the end of the facility’s useful life.

“The developer did a good job working with the community,” said Commissioner John Tuma. He also stated, “the Plum Creek Wind facility will provide reliable, low-carbon energy for Minnesota ratepayers while energizing the local economy through landowner lease payments, job creation, and the generation of local tax revenue.” 

About the PUC: 

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. 

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