Studies and Reports > 2009 MN Biennial Report > NE Planning Zone > Needs: 6.3.24 Rush City – Cambridge –Princeton – Milaca Area

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6.3.24 Rush City – Cambridge –Princeton – Milaca Area

Tracking Number: 2009-NE-N11

Utility: Great River Energy

Inadequacy: The GRE 69 kV system fed by the Milaca, Elk River, Rush City, and Linwood 230 kV sources is projected to be voltage-deficient for various area contingencies by the mid- to late-2010’s. The worst areas are south of Princeton and Cambridge as these locations are on the fringe of the Twin Cities metro load growth area and are farthest away from transmission sources on contingency. Additionally, the Milaca 230/69 kV substation has only a 26-mile, 230 kV radial feed serving the 69 kV system and thus a 230 kV outage significantly reduces the voltage support offered to the area.

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

Alternatives. Alternatives are still under consideration including a new Rush City-Milaca 230 kV line with a Dalbo 230/69 kV substation tap of this new facility.

Analysis. 230 kV construction is being heavily considered as there are no other reasonable load-serving voltages in the area to provide a new source into the 69 kV system. A second 230 kV feed into the Milaca substation would provide more secure service to the area. Additionally, a new Dalbo substation can help to support both the Princeton and Cambridge areas plus provide a new termination point for any 115 kV development that may occur in the area. No alternatives, however, have been ruled out yet.

Schedule. GRE is anticipating a need for a solution around 2020, although load growth in this area will dictate the need. A Certificate of Need and a Route Permit will need to be procured from the Commission for any 230 kV transmission line that would be required.

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