LA CROSSE, WI— Dairyland Power Cooperative and ALLETE’s Minnesota Power (Duluth, Minn.) have received approval for the Nemadji Trail Energy Center from the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW). The combined cycle natural gas plant is proposed for construction in Superior, Wis.
At its open meeting on Jan. 16, the PSCW commissioners verbally approved issuance of a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) on a 2-1 vote. This approval allows project partners Dairyland and Minnesota Power to move forward with plans for the up to 625 MW natural gas facility.
Today’s decision by the PSCW follows lengthy public involvement and regulatory review. Dairyland and Minnesota Power announced the proposed facility in June 2017. Additional regulatory approvals and permits for the Nemadji Trail Energy Center are required from the City of Superior, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Dairyland Vice President, External and Member Relations, Rob Palmberg emphasized the importance of the Nemadji Trail Energy Center’s role in supporting renewable energy resources. “We are pleased with today’s decision following the extensive review process,” said Palmberg. “Because of its ability to provide reliable back-up to intermittent sources of power, Nemadji Trail is a critical part of our resource diversification strategy. As Dairyland continues to embrace solar and wind generation, Nemadji Trail’s ability to respond on demand will provide key support for our cooperative’s evolving energy future.”
The Nemadji Trail Energy Center is scheduled to be in service by 2025, contingent on further regulatory approvals. It is proposed at a shovel-ready industrial site in Superior, adjacent to the service territories of both Dairyland and Minnesota Power.
