Xcel Energy seeks proposals for clean energy projects to replace coal-fired King plant on Minnesota-Wisconsin border

Xcel Energy has issued a call for clean energy projects in northwest Wisconsin, USA. The company is seeking approximately 650 MW of new solar-specific projects or projects that combine solar with energy storage, such as batteries. These projects will help replace the capacity of the Allen S. King plant, a coal-fired plant in Oak Park Heights, Minnesota that is scheduled to retire in 2028.

The call for proposals is part of Xcel Energy's Upper Midwest Energy Plan, which aims to provide 100% carbon-free electricity to customers. The new projects will help the company reduce carbon emissions by 85% in the region by 2030 compared with 2005. The 650 MW of new generation is enough to power approximately 135,000 homes each year on average.

Xcel Energy plans to reuse existing grid connections at the King plant site. The company's request calls for projects located in Wisconsin with commercial operation dates from 2027 to 2029. This initiative will add significant carbon-free energy for the company's Upper Midwest customers and help move toward the goal of retiring all the company's coal plants by 2030.