Minnesota Coal Plant Becomes 710MW Clean Energy Hub

Minnesota just turned its biggest pollution problem into its brightest clean energy solution.

Xcel Energy completed the third phase of its Sherco Solar project on July 21, adding 250 megawatts of clean electricity to a site that once housed the state's largest coal-burning power plant. The facility near Becker now generates 710 megawatts from 1.7 million solar panels, enough to power more than 150,000 homes.

The project started producing energy in late 2024 and has grown rapidly over two years. A proposed fourth phase would add another 200 megawatts by 2029, pushing total capacity to 910 megawatts and creating 300 union construction jobs along with $90 million in economic benefits for surrounding communities.

What makes this transformation special is that workers aren't being left behind. Xcel is reusing the existing transmission lines and infrastructure from the coal plant, allowing employees to transition into new roles as the old facility phases out. The company has retired 24 coal units across eight states without a single layoff.

"As someone who grew up in this community and works at this site, it's exciting to see the next chapter of Sherco taking shape," said Luke Molus, senior operations manager for the solar project. For decades, the Sherco plant powered the region with coal. Now it's delivering the same reliability with sunshine.

The site even employs an innovative approach to maintenance. Sheep graze beneath the solar panels, naturally managing vegetation across 5,000 acres while eliminating the need for constant mowing. It's agriculture and clean energy working together in perfect harmony.

The Ripple Effect

This isn't just about one solar farm. Xcel is installing a groundbreaking iron-air battery system at the site that can store electricity for up to 100 hours, providing backup power when the sun isn't shining. The company is also converting retired coal generators into equipment that helps stabilize the electric grid as more renewable energy comes online.

The Sherco coal plant's second unit retired in 2023. Unit 1 closes this year, with the final coal-fired generator scheduled to shut down in 2030. Meanwhile, Xcel's nearby Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant continues providing carbon-free electricity 24/7 under a license extending through 2050.

Together, these projects show how the Upper Midwest is building a cleaner energy future without sacrificing reliability or leaving workers behind. Xcel aims to provide 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050 while meeting growing demand across the region.

From coal ash to solar rays, one community is proving that energy transitions can create opportunity instead of hardship.