Transmission
In addition to energy generation, SMMPA plays an active role in planning and building an integrated, regional transmission infrastructure. By investing in transmission, SMMPA helps to provide reliable electric service, provides access to new generating resources, and receives revenue which helps hold down its electric rates.
The Agency's members are located in the transmission control areas of the SMMPA, Xcel Energy, Great River Energy (GRE) and Alliant Energy, and they’re connected to the electric transmission systems of the SMMPA, Xcel Energy, Dairyland Power Cooperative, ITC Midwest and GRE. The Agency has constructed various 69 kV, 161 kV, 230 kV and 345 kV transmission lines and associated substation facilities to more reliably serve its members.
SMMPA has transmission agreements with neighboring utilities and takes Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) network service for its members.
Additionally, for over two decades the Agency has partnered with other utilities to upgrade and expand the regional transmission grid to ensure electric reliability. Through this initiative, more than $2 billion was invested by participating utilities to construct 800-plus miles of high-voltage transmission lines linking Minnesota to the Dakotas and Wisconsin.
grid north partners
Grid North Partners is a broad mix of 10 investor-owned and not-for-profit cooperative and municipal utilities working together to ensure continued safe, reliable and affordable electric transmission service.
Mankato-Mississippi River Transmission Project
The Mankato-Mississippi River Transmission Project includes about 120 miles of new and upgraded 345 kilovolt (kV) transmission lines between the existing Wilmarth Substation located in Mankato; and a connection point at the Mississippi River near Kellogg.
MISO
SMMPA participates in the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) wholesale energy market as both a buyer and seller of capacity and energy.
Minnesota's Electric Transmission System
SMMPA is a sponsoring utility in Minnesota's Electric Transmission System, an initiative designed to help meet the growing need for improved electricity transmission.
interconnection
Interconnection of new generation facilities, transmission facilities, or end-user facilities with the Agency’s transmission system must meet certain requirements to avoid adverse impacts to the bulk power system.
Badger-Coulee Transmission Project
The Badger-Coulee transmission project connected 180-miles of high voltage transmission line from La Crosse, Wisconsin to the western edge of Madison, Wisconsin.