Construction is complete on the North Star Solar project in Chisago County, Minnesota, making it the largest single solar facility in the Midwest and one of the largest in the U.S. The project is expected to come online in December 2016.
The North Star Solar project will generate 100 MW of electricity and is a US$180 million investment in Minnesota as well as Chisago County. Swinerton Renewable Energy built the facility and employed more than 300 people during peak construction. Originally developed by Community Energy Solar, the property is managed by an affiliate of D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments.
Xcel Energy will purchase power from North Star as part of a 25-year deal to provide solar energy to customers across the Upper Midwest. The electricity generated at North Star will help power the Minnesota State Capitol Complex through Xcel Energy’s Renewable*Connect Government Pilot Program, if approved by the Public Utilities Commission.
“We’re pleased the largest solar project in the Midwest will deliver the clean, renewable energy our customers want,” said Chris Clark, president, Xcel Energy – Minnesota. “We are on a path that more than doubles wind and solar energy options, and the North Star project plays a role in our goal to be 63% carbon-free by 2030.”
The company’s ultimate goal is to have 8% of its electricity generated from solar by 2030.
For more information about Community Energy, visit www.communityenergysolar.com.
