Minnesota

• CON Docket number: 25-121
• RP Docket number: 26-156 

• CON Docket number: 25-121
• RP Docket number: 26-156

We plan to file our RP Application in fall 2026. After the permit is filed and accepted as complete by the MPUC, the regulatory review process begins.

Once the RP Application is deemed complete, the MPUC will hold public information and scoping meetings throughout the project area to begin developing the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). These meetings, along with a written comment period, allow landowners and community members to:

• Ask questions of MPUC staff and the applicants.
• Provide input on the scope of study for the EIS.
• Suggest alternative routes for consideration by the MPUC.
• Suggest system alternatives (alternatives to the project) to be evaluated in the EIS.
• Address potential impacts and mitigation measures that should be studied in the EIS.

The EIS evaluates potential effects on land use, including agricultural operations and residences, water resources, natural habitats and other environmental factors. Proposed system alternatives should still meet the project's purpose and need. Proposed route alternatives can include minor alignment shifts as well as longer route alternatives, but should have the same start and end points as the project.

Following the close of the comment period, the MPUC publishes a decision outlining the topics and route alternatives that will be included in the EIS.

The Draft EIS will be published and made available for public review and comment.

After the Draft EIS is published, an administrative law judge (ALJ) will conduct public hearings at venues within the project area. Following the public hearings, a written comment period. Both of these public input opportunities are designed for the MPUC to receive comments on the project, including how potential impacts of the project could be addressed and what conditions should be required for the project to move forward. Advance notice of the public hearings will be provided via mail and publication within the newspaper of general circulation for the project area. The ALJ prepares a report summarizing the facts, conclusions and recommendations on the merits of the project for the MPUC to consider as part of the case record. The ALJ report may include recommendations on route selection and conditions that should be included in the RP.

The MPUC publishes the Final EIS and determines whether the EIS is adequate as part of the permitting process.

After reviewing the CON and RP applications, report from the ALJ, all public comments and the complete environmental review and permitting record, the MPUC will make its final CON and RP decisions at a scheduled MPUC meeting. MPUC meetings and hearings are open to the public. At that time, the MPUC will decide whether the project is needed and which route, or combination of routes, to approve, as well as any conditions the permit should include.

An RP can only be issued after a CON is granted, and the RP approval determines the transmission line route. Once approved, the utilities will pursue any additional required permits, such as those required by other state and federal agencies, depending on the designated route.

Input and engagement opportunities will be available throughout these processes.