Great River Energy, wholesale power provider to Minnesota Valley Electric Cooperative, proposes to build approximately 3 to 5 miles of 115-kilovolt (kV) electric transmission lines within Laketown and Dahlgren Townships in Carver County. A route permit must be issued by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) before construction can begin.
Great River Energy is planning to construct a new 115-kV double-circuit transmission line to power a new distribution substation being built by Minnesota Valley Electric Cooperative at the northwest corner of the intersection of Carver County Road 10 and Laketown Road. Great River Energy is currently reviewing three potential routes for the new transmission line as depicted on the fact sheet below.
Transmission line construction will generally use single direct-embedded steel poles 70 to 95 feet tall, placed 300 to 450 feet apart. Some specialty poles, including steel on foundation, may be required for larger angles. To provide a safe construction, operation and maintenance area, a 100-footwide right of way, 50 feet each side of the centerline, will need to be maintained to be clear of trees and vegetation.
Permitting and public involvement
Great River Energy will host a public open house in early 2024 to share additional project information with landowners, local government officials and other stakeholders to solicit input on the project.
Great River Energy will apply for a route permit from the PUC. During the route permitting process, all stakeholders will have opportunities to provide input on the project, including public meetings facilitated by the PUC and the Department of Commerce Energy Environmental Review and Analysis (DOC EERA). The DOC EERA will prepare an environmental assessment for the project.
Public open house meetings
Great River Energy will hold two public open house meetings about the project. No formal presentation will be given, but the public is invited to attend anytime during the hours indicated below to learn more about the project and have their questions answered.
Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2024
11:00-1:00 and 4:00-6:00
Chaska Event Center
3210 Chaska Blvd., Chaska, MN