Minnesota's electric transmission planning
Ensuring reliability
We own and maintain electric transmission lines in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Our transmission system is made up of high-voltage power lines that transmit electricity from generation plants. These lines also transmit power among utilities to ensure reliability within the region. Minnesota's transmission grid links with other interconnected transmission systems throughout the entire eastern United States.
Times have changed
Minnesota's transmission system originally was designed to reliably deliver power to major electric load centers such as Minneapolis/St. Paul, Duluth, Rochester, and St. Cloud. Now it has become a regional highway for transmitting power among utilities. At the same time, it serves a critical reliability role.
Upgrades are needed
Given its age and increased use, most people agree that Minnesota's transmission system is being stretched and needs updating. Otter Tail Power Company participates in planning through CapX 2020 and through our involvement in the Minnesota Electric Transmission Planning group. These utilities hold public meetings, submit a biennial transmission plan, and provide an Electric Transmission Planning web site with additional and timely information about this effort.
