Minnesota Power has received the federal approval to build its 383MW Great Northern transmission line project linking the US with Canada.
The link will deliver clean energy from Canada’s hydropower resources to Minnesota, while strengthening reliability of the power grid, the utility unit of Allete said.
The Presidential permit is the final major regulatory approval needed before construction can begin and is required because the transmission line will cross the international border between Manitoba and Minnesota, it said.
Construction on the 500kV line is expected to start early next year.
It will deliver 383MW of renewable hydropower purchased from Manitoba Hydro to Minnesota Power’s customers from 2020.
“The Great Northern transmission line is a crucial link in Minnesota Power’s EnergyForward strategy of balancing renewable and traditional energy sources,” Allete chief executive Al Hodnik said.
“Minnesota Power already has exceeded Minnesota’s 25% renewable standard, and is well-positioned to meet future decreased carbon emissions goals.”
Image: SXC
