The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) approved a route permit for the Laketown 115-kilovolt (kV) transmission line project in Carver County. The decision marks the conclusion of a review process highlighted by community involvement that ultimately reshaped the project’s final route.

The Laketown Project, proposed by Great River Energy and Minnesota Valley Electric Cooperative, includes approximately 4.3 miles of new transmission line and a new substation to support local energy needs.

Last fall, the PUC determined that the initial record was incomplete and sent the project back for additional review and record development. This opened a new window for the public to weigh in. The PUC reportedly received comments from landowners and local officials, and the feedback was nearly unanimous — the community preferred Route Alternative B because it follows existing rights-of-way and avoids cutting through productive farmland.

“We at the Commission understand the importance of input from local leaders and those that will be living next to utility infrastructure that will be going through their communities,” said Commissioner John Tuma. “The modification of the final route for the Laketown powerline shows why it’s so important for people to engage with us on the issues that matter to their communities. Because people spoke up, the utilities listened and changed their plans, and we ended up with a much better route that addressed their concerns.”

The PUC also approved a tree replacement plan, which requires the utilities to work with landowners, townships and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to plant new trees on affected properties to replace those removed during construction.

Full project details are available on the Laketown Transmission Line webpage.

The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission regulates three service industries in Minnesota’s economy: electricity, natural gas and telephone.