Studies and Reports > 2009 MN Biennial Report > TC Planning Zone > Needs: 6.5.5 Twin Cities 345/115 kV Transformer Capacity

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6.5.5 Twin Cities 345/115 kV Transformer Capacity

Tracking Number. 2003-TC-N10

Utility. Xcel Energy and Great River Energy

Inadequacy. There are nineteen 345/115 kV or 230/115 kV transformers in the Twin Cities area. These transformers serve a majority of the Twin Cities load from remote generation from Xcel Energy’s Allen S. King, Monticello, Prairie Island and Sherburne County plants, from Great River Energy’s plants in North Dakota, and by hydropower from Manitoba.

Xcel Energy has made an initial assessment of the loading on these transformers. A number of the transformers are near their emergency loading criteria. However, this is very dependent on Twin City generation schedules.

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

Alternatives. The two alternatives are (1) to replace existing transformers with larger capacity units or (2) install additional units at the affected substations.

Analysis. This is an ongoing situation that Xcel Energy and Great River Energy continuously monitor.

Schedule. Transformer capacity will continue to be studied on an ongoing basis and new projects will be identified as needed.

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