Minnesota Power hosts MPUC to highlight solar economic development projects

Published on June 16, 2022 by Liz Carey


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Minnesota Power hosted Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) Tuesday to highlight solar energy projects and how they will impact economic development in the state.

MPUC Chair Katie Sieben and Commissioner John Tuma joined Minnesota Power, an ALLETE company, to tour the Laskin Energy Center solar project in Hoyt Lakes and the Heliene solar panel production facility in Mountain Iron.

“We are grateful the MPUC commissioners traveled to our region today to see first-hand just some of what Minnesota Power is doing to advance sustainable, clean energy in our region while investing in the local economy,” ALLETE Chair, President and CEO Bethany Owen said. “From a local solar panel producer to local labor and strong collaboration with our local communities, the dividends from these investments will stay here and continue to support a thriving region with opportunities for everyone to succeed. These solar projects clearly demonstrate that investing in the clean-energy transformation is good for our communities and the climate – as well as our customers.”

The 5.6 MW Laskin solar project is one of three the utility is building this summer as part of the MUPC-approved effort to boost the region’s post-pandemic economic recovery. The company is also constructing a 15.2 MW array near the company’s Sylvan Hydro Station near Brainerd, Minn., and a 1.6 MW array on Riley Road in Duluth.

All the solar panels for the projects will be locally produced at the Heliene Mountain Iron facility, while all three projects will be constructed by local labor. Additionally, Minnesota Power has contracted with Cambria County Association for the Blind and Handicapped to supply the cable support system for the solar arrays to promote diversity in its suppliers.

The company said the projects will create 38 local construction jobs, provide the energy to power 4,000 homes, add $10 million to the 2022 gross regional product, and increase annual local government revenue by an estimated $55,000 via direct tax payments and $110,000 in indirect payments.