Minnesota Power plant in Superior draws opposition

Minnesota Power plans to build a natural gas-fueled power plant in Superior. But citizen groups are questioning whether it’s a good idea, either for customers or the environment.

If all goes as planned, the $700 million power plant, to be called the Nemadji Trail Energy Center, will begin operation in 2025. It will be jointly owned with Dairyland Power Cooperative, with the two companies equally dividing the cost.

The plant is part of Minnesota Power’s “EnergyForward” plan by which renewable sources -- wind, solar, biomass and Canadian hydro -- will provide 44 percent of the energy supply by 2025. Coal will provide about 33 percent and natural gas around 23 percent. The project is estimated to create 260 construction jobs and employ 22-25 full-time workers.

The plant is expected to stabilize the energy supply for times when renewable energy capability is lower. “Natural gas is flexible, abundant, and you can call upon it when the sun’s not shining,” said Amy Rutledge, communications manager for ALLETE/Minnesota Power.

Read more: http://duluthreader.com/articles/2018/02/22/12459_minnesota_power_plant_in_superior_draws_opposition