Great River Energy

,

ITC Midwest

and

Xcel Energy

announced that they have submitted an application for a Certificate of Need to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission for a group of proposed electric transmission lines known as PowerOn Midwest. The project includes a new 765-kilovolt (kV) backbone transmission line and related upgrades intended to support electricity delivery and connect new sources of power to the regional grid.

PowerOn Midwest consists of a series of new transmission projects centered on a 765 kV line that would connect to the existing grid in eastern South Dakota, extend across southern Minnesota and link to the broader regional system. In Minnesota, the transmission line is proposed to connect the Lakefield, Pleasant Valley and North Rochester substations in Jackson, Mower and Olmstead counties.

“PowerOn Midwest is a vital investment for Minnesota and the entire Upper Midwest,” the utility partners stated. “By strengthening the transmission system, these transmission lines will help ensure reliable, affordable electricity for Minnesota homes and businesses, support economic growth and enable access to lower-cost energy resources across the Upper Midwest. Together, we’re building a grid that meets today’s needs and positions our region for a sustainable future.”

According to the companies, the proposed infrastructure is intended to enable the movement of electricity from where it is generated to where it is needed, helping maintain reliable electricity delivery under a range of conditions. The new lines are described as capable of accommodating energy from a variety of sources.

The transmission projects are part of the portfolio approved in December 2024 by the Midcontinent Independent System Operator as part of its Long Range Transmission Plan, which includes 24 transmission projects across multiple voltages and states.

Over the past year, the companies reported holding 17 public open houses and numerous stakeholder meetings in Minnesota to engage with landowners, local governments, agencies and Tribal Nations.

Pending regulatory approval of the Certificate of Need application in Minnesota, the companies said they will continue working with landowners and communities in the project areas to gather input for future route planning. Route Permit applications are expected to be filed with the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission in 2027, with related permitting activities in South Dakota planned for later in 2026. Subject to approvals, construction could begin by 2030, with the transmission line operational by 2034.

In addition to the 765 kV transmission line, the application includes two 345 kV transmission projects: rebuilding an existing single-circuit line between the Pleasant Valley and North Rochester substations, and adding a second circuit to the existing 345 kV line between the Hampton and North Rochester substations.