The Power of Partnership

The MariBell Transmission Project is a joint development by American-owned companies, Dairyland Power Cooperative and GridLiance Heartland. As a member-owned generation and transmission electric cooperative, Dairyland Power Cooperative proudly serves 24 electric cooperatives, 27 municipal utilities and power supply customers across Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa and Illinois. A subsidiary of NextEra Energy Transmission, GridLiance Heartland and affiliated companies have over 3,100 miles of transmission lines in development and operation across North America. 
 
Together, this team is committed to working closely with communities and citizens to maintain transparent communication and thoughtful planning throughout every stage of this project. 

A Proven Need for Regional Reliability

Dairyland Power Cooperative with Xcel Energy have submitted an application for a Certificate of Need (CN Docket No. 25-121) to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) for the Gopher to Badger Link, which includes the Minnesota segment of the Maribell transmission line. This filing initiates a comprehensive independent review by the MPUC that will provide multiple opportunities for public participation and evaluate the project need, reliability, cost-effectiveness, environmental impacts and alternatives to ensure the Gopher to Badger Link effectively serves our region's energy needs while minimizing impacts.

This marks the first step in the permitting process in Minnesota. The companies plan to submit a Route Permit application to the MPUC in the fall that will determine the transmission line’s location.

Project Timeline

The timeline is an estimate and is subject to change as the project develops.
2025 - 2031
Public / Landowner Outreach & Permitting
2031 - 2034
Project Construction
2034
Project In Service

Total Length and Location

The Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) assigned the proposed transmission project to Dairyland Power Cooperative and GridLiance Heartland. We will build and maintain approximately 140 miles of modern, reliable infrastructure that stretches from Marion, Minnesota to Bell Center, Wisconsin.

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Minnesota Segment

Located in southeastern Minnesota in Olmsted, Mower, Fillmore and Houston counties

Wisconsin Segment

Located in southwestern Wisconsin in Vernon and Crawford counties

Strengthening Our Community:

Investments in Local Infrastructure Benefits Schools and Roads

The MariBell Transmission Project will generate new revenue that supports local initiatives — like schools, roads and emergency response services. During construction, the project will create about 600 construction job opportunities, driving economic activity throughout the region.Transmission investments like MariBell are carefully planned to deliver value to your community while keeping costs low.

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Powering Minnesota's Economy*

Approximately $375 million in local and state property taxes over the life of the project.
$200+ million in economic benefits from construction and operations.

Powering Wisconsin's Economy*

Approximately $30 million in state revenue over the life of the project.
$70+ million in economic benefits from construction and operations.

*Economic analysis by Strategic Economic Research, LLC.

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Designing a Line That Fits the Local Landscape

Dairyland Power Cooperative and GridLiance Heartland will limit land impacts by using existing transmission corridors where possible. MariBell will be designed to minimize land use and visual impact. The team continues to conduct detailed environmental analyses to protect wildlife habitats and aquatic resources, as well as cultural, tribal and historic resources across Minnesota and Wisconsin. 

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Drop us a Line

Do you have questions about the MariBell Transmission Project? Please email the team at connect@maribelltransmission.com.

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