Great River Energy, wholesale power provider to Dakota Electric Association, proposes to rebuild approximately 8.75 miles of 69-kilovolt (kV) electric transmission lines within the cities of Eagan and Burnsville, replacing them with new transmission lines capable of operating at 115-kV. The Pilot Knob – Burnsville Rebuild Project will enable Great River Energy to maintain reliable and resilient service to electric cooperative members, first by installing new equipment built to modern design standards, and second by increasing the potential capacity to operate at 115-kV in the future. While there is not a current need to operate at a higher voltage, the ability to operate at the higher voltage will ensure there is sufficient electrical capability to serve increased electrical demand in the future. A route permit must be issued by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) before construction can begin.
The project will include replacing existing structures primarily with direct-imbedded steel poles, 60-95 feet above ground and placed 350 to 400 feet apart. Specialty poles may be required in some areas, which will mean different size/type of poles and spans.
Permitting and public involvement
Great River Energy will submit a route permit application for the Project to the PUC. During the route permit process, the public and regulatory agencies will have opportunities to provide input on the project, including public meetings facilitated by the PUC and Department of Commerce Energy Environmental Review and Analysis (DOC EERA). The DOC EERA will prepare an environmental assessment for the project.
- Pilot Knob Rebuild – Route Permit Application
- Figures
- App A – Detailed Route Maps
- App B – Early Correspondence
- App C – Notice of Intent
- App D – Correspondence with Agencies and Tribes
- App E – Pilot Knob Mailing List
- App F – Pilot Knob Construction Emission Calculation
- App G – Pilot Knob Greenhouse Gas Emissions Calculation
- App H – Pilot Knob Unanticipated Discoveries Plan
- App I – Vegetation Management Plan
Public open house meetings
Great River Energy held four public open house meetings about the project. No formal presentation was given, but the public was invited to attend anytime during the hours indicated below to learn more about the project and have their questions answered.
Tuesday, July 25, 2023
11:00-1:00 and 4:00-6:00
Eagan Community Center
1501 Central Pkwy
Eagan, MN 55121
Wednesday, July 26, 2023
11:00-1:00 and 4:00-6:00
Diamondhead Education Center
Eagan Room
200 West Burnsville Pkwy
Burnsville, MN 55337