Great River Energy finalized a power purchase agreement and surplus interconnection service agreement with Apex Clean Energy for the 300-megawatt Big Bend Wind project in southern Minnesota.
This deal employs a groundbreaking strategy that uses Great River Energy’s existing injection rights with the region’s grid operator, MISO, to bypass traditional interconnection challenges and accelerate development of the project.
“Big Bend Wind project is an integral piece of our resource portfolio and a key project as we work toward meeting Minnesota’s carbon-free standard,” said Great River Energy Director of Resource Planning Zac Ruzycki. “This project will deliver a significant amount of renewable electricity and will be a tremendous value to our member-owners.”
Located in Cottonwood, Watonwan and Martin counties, Big Bend will help Great River Energy meet its 2035 targets to reach 90% carbon-free retail electric sales and reduce its emissions by more than 90% from 2005 base levels.
Apex Clean Energy predicts Big Bend Wind will create significant economic benefits for the surrounding area, including approximately $38 million in new tax revenue, 300 jobs during construction, and up to 14 permanent operations and maintenance roles.
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