Studies and Reports > 2009 MN Biennial Report > NE Planning Zone > Needs: 6.3.13 Birch Lake-Onigum Area

To inquire about this project, click here.

6.3.13 Birch Lake-Onigum Area

Tracking Number. 2007-NE-N6

Utility. Great River Energy

Inadequacy. The 34.5 kV system between Akeley and Birch Lake is incapable of supporting the voltage on contingency for the projected load.

A map of the area is shown on the following page.

Alternatives. The Onigum load is the largest load on this transmission loop and is out of phase with the rest of Lake Country Power loads so conversion to 115 kV would be desirable. GRE is considering constructing about 9.8 miles of 115 kV line using existing 34.5 kV and HWY 371 corridor. This line construction would be the start of a 115 kV source to Walker.

Analysis. The 2008 GRE Long Range Plan indicated that the conversion of the Onigum substation to 115 kV operation will unload the 34.5 kV service and extend the useful life of this system. MP and GRE will need to monitor the growth of the Walker area electric system to see when further conversion may be required.

Schedule. GRE has this project scheduled for a 2013 energization. A Certificate of Need will need to be filed if the proposed route for the new Onigum line exceeds 10 miles.

Click here or on map below to download high resolution PDF map.