Hibbing plans 115 kV line to boost grid
Hibbing Public Utilities proposes a 5 km 115 kV line and substation to strengthen grid reliability.
Image for illustration purposes
USA, Minnesota, Hibbing: Hibbing Public Utilities (HPU) is moving forward with the design of a new overhead transmission project aimed at enhancing the city’s power reliability and grid access. A landowner-specific informational meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, 7 May 2025, at the Maple Hill Community Club.
Dubbed the Southern Interconnect Project, the plan includes constructing a 5 km (3 mi), 115 kV transmission line stretching from the existing Great River Energy substation on Maple Hill Road to a Minnesota Power line south of Town Line Road.
In addition to the line, HPU plans to build a new substation near Hibbing’s water treatment plant. The goal is to increase electrical redundancy and improve regional grid integration, reducing dependence on a single, aging grid connection.
“This project addresses our system’s need for improved reliability by adding redundancy and stronger links to the power grid,” said HPU General Manager Luke Peterson in a statement. “With the new line and two added connection points, we will move from relying on one outdated connection to having three independent sources for delivering electricity to our customers.”
The project is still in its early design phase, and the upcoming meeting will focus on engaging directly with landowners affected by the proposed route. Public feedback will be key in shaping the final alignment and implementation timeline.
HPU sees the project as a strategic investment in Hibbing’s energy future and long-term service resilience.
Source: KAXE
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