The 220-mile transmission line will transport renewable and carbon free hydroelectricity generated by Manitoba Hydro in Manitoba, Canada, to Minnesota, US.
The project is expected to cost between $560m and $710m, based on 2013 estimates.
Minnesota Power executive vice-president Dave McMillan said: "The Great Northern Transmission Line is a signature component of Minnesota Power’s EnergyFoward strategy to reduce carbon emissions and assure continued reliability and affordable rates while diversifying its energy portfolio to a one-third renewable, one-third coal and one-third natural gas energy mix."
The project is expected to optimize the company’s wind energy resources, diversify energy supply while reducing its dependence on coal, and reduce the future emissions regulations risks.
Minnesota Power is due to secure MPUC’s approval of a route permit as well as a Presidential Permit from the US Department of Energy for an international border crossing.
The company has signed a power purchase agreement with Manitoba Hydro, to provide 383MW to its customers by 1 June 2020.
The deal will allow Minnesota Power to use Manitoba Hydro’s hydroelectric system to store electricity generated by its Bison wind power center in North Dakota .
