Great River Energy to be involved in 3 projects, including 765-kV ‘superhighway’
MISO approved of a new set of high-voltage transmission projects on Thursday, Dec. 12, that will help energy companies in the Upper Midwest, like Great River Energy, continue to deliver reliable energy and expand a robust electrical grid that features more carbon-free renewable energy and expected higher energy use.
The newly approved second set of projects in MISO’s Long-Range Transmission Plan, known as Tranche 2.1, will deliver energy resources to customers where and when they need it. These projects will provide significant benefits, including reliable electricity in the face of a changing energy system and increased access to new generation. They will also help meet long-term electric growth expected throughout the Midwest in the coming decades.
Great River Energy will be involved in three of the 24 projects in the Tranche 2.1 portfolio, including two 345-kilovolt (kV) transmission lines in northern Minnesota and a new 765-kV transmission backbone that will start in South Dakota, traverse across southern Minnesota and into Wisconsin and Iowa. All projects will be developed jointly with other utility partners.
Great River Energy worked closely with MISO over the last several years to advocate for the projects that are in the best interest of its members.
“This portfolio of projects is monumental for Minnesota and our members. Introducing a 765-kV electric transmission superhighway is an important step for Minnesota’s energy landscape that sets us up for the future.”
— Great River Energy Vice President and Chief Transmission Officer Priti Patel
This new set of high-voltage transmission projects will support the region’s growing economy and serve customers throughout the Midwest with reliable electricity in a changing energy environment.
The $21.8 billion portfolio includes 24 projects throughout the Midwest with several 345-kV lines and a 765-kilovolt (kV) transmission backbone in Minnesota. While 765-kV transmission has been used in other parts of the United States for decades, the line will be a first for the Upper Midwest. A single 765-kV transmission line can carry the same amount of electricity as six 345-kV transmission lines, for not much more right-of-way than existing 345-kV lines, maximizing the efficient use of land and reducing the overall impact on landowners.
As the region’s electric system continues to transition from fossil fuels to renewable resources such as wind and solar, and the way we use energy continues to evolve, more bulk power lines are needed across the region to ensure continued reliability.
All projects will require approval from state regulatory agencies. Project partners will engage landowners, local governments and other stakeholders as part of the project development process.
“As we move forward to develop these projects, there will be ample opportunity for public input through our engagement efforts and the state of Minnesota’s permitting process. Great River Energy is deeply committed to ensuring our cooperative communities have a voice in the process of developing these lines,” Patel said.
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