Minnesota Power, the utility division of Duluth-based Allete, is moving forward with plans for a 200-megawatt wind farm in western North Dakota, marking another major investment in the region’s renewable energy landscape.

The Longspur Wind project will be built in Morton and Mercer counties, near the company’s existing Bison Wind Energy Center. The proposed development will feature 45 turbines and will utilize Minnesota Power’s existing 465-mile transmission line to deliver power from North Dakota to customers in northern Minnesota.

According to a company news release, construction is expected to begin in 2026, contingent on obtaining regulatory approvals in both North Dakota and Minnesota. The project is slated to become operational in late 2027, which would allow it to take advantage of soon-to-expire federal tax credits for renewable energy.

Economic and Community Impact

During the construction phase, Minnesota Power expects the project to generate hundreds of union jobs, providing a significant economic boost to the surrounding area. Once operational, the Longspur Wind project will generate millions of dollars in local tax revenue to support schools, infrastructure improvements, and community services in both Morton and Mercer counties.

Advancing Renewable Energy Goals

In 2020, Minnesota Power became the first electric utility in the state to deliver 50% renewable energy to its customers. Company officials say the addition of 200 megawatts from Longspur Wind will help achieve the utility’s goal of 80% renewable energy by 2030.

The project also supports Minnesota Power’s broader strategy to transition away from fossil fuels, reduce carbon emissions, and integrate more clean energy sources into the grid while maintaining reliability for customers.

Regional Wind Energy Context

North Dakota remains one of the nation’s leaders in wind power, with 3,665 megawatts of installed capacity accounting for nearly 35% of its total electric generation, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).

Minnesota also ranks high nationally, with 4,184 megawatts of wind capacity—about 25% of its power mix—and an additional 340 megawatts under construction.

Wind Energy Nationwide

While Minnesota and North Dakota are strong performers in the wind sector, Texas continues to dominate with 19,415 active wind turbines—more than the next three states combined. Other leading states include Iowa (6,472 turbines), Oklahoma (5,597), and California (5,510).

With Longspur Wind, Minnesota Power strengthens its position as a regional clean energy leader while also bringing economic benefits to rural communities. If approvals are granted on schedule, the wind farm could start turning its turbines in just over two years, providing renewable energy to thousands of homes and businesses across Minnesota.

Originally reported by Chris Mueller in Argus Leader.