Minnesota Power Plans To Deliver 100% Emission-Free Energy By 2050

Minnesota Power has revealed its goal to deliver 100% carbon-free energy to customers by 2050.

The company’s Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) goes on to outline the next steps for clean-energy transition over the next 15 years.

Environmental Leader reports that the plan includes expanding wind and solar resources, reaching coal-free operations by 2035, and investing in a resilient and flexible transmission and distribution grid.

“Minnesota Power has set a target to achieve an 80% reduction in carbon emissions by 2035 compared to 2005 levels, meeting the state’s goal for greenhouse gas reductions 15 years ahead of schedule. Like other area utilities, Minnesota Power’s plan will recognize that advances in technology will play a significant role in completing its transition to a carbon-free energy supply, reliably and affordably.”

When the IRP is submitted, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) will act as a regulatory body that provides input from customers, organizations and communities. 

Minnesota Power has spent a whole year discussing with stakeholders that provided the valuable details for the IRP, including the ultimate goal of delivering 100% emission-free energy by 2050.

The roadmap includes adding 400 new megawatts of wind and solar and retiring coal-fired Boswell Energy Center Unit 3 by 2030.