Xcel Energy: Receives approval to build largest solar project in western Wisconsin

Eau Claire, Wis. (June 3, 2021) – Xcel Energy’s clean energy transition has taken another significant step forward with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin’s approval of a 74-megawatt solar array in Pierce County, Wis. When completed, the Western Mustang project will be owned and operated by Xcel Energy and be the largest solar facility in western Wisconsin.

“We are pleased to invest in this locally sourced solar facility to provide more renewable energy to our customers,” said Mark Stoering, president, Xcel Energy, Wisconsin and Michigan. “This project allows us to provide clean, zero-fuel cost energy to help us meet our carbon reduction goals cost effectively and, at the same time, provide economic development benefits to the area.” 

The project will be built on nearly 1,100 acres of land in the town of Gilman in the northeastern part of the county. Once built, it is expected to generate nearly $300,000 a year in shared revenue payments for Pierce County and the town of Gilman.

Xcel Energy currently has more than 760 megawatts of large-scale, universal solar capacity on its system and was the first major utility in the nation to announce a vision to deliver carbon-free electricity to all customers by 2050.

Ranger Power LLC, is developing the project on behalf of Western Mustang Solar, LLC. Construction is expected to begin construction later this year, with plans to be generating clean, renewable energy in 2022.