TO THE EDITOR:

Wind and Solar Works.

Inspiring to see Xcel Energy’s plan to build a large solar project near Sherco. The positive economic impact of solar and wind energy has been identified in multiple reports. This is important for our economic recovery due to COVID-19. And the climate crisis we are experiencing with the draughts, fires, hurricanes, rain, and flooding, emphasizes the need to move away from fossil fuel. So, very happy Xcel is moving in that direction.

One concern is Xcel’s proposed fracked gas plant in Becker.  Reports indicate that new gas plants are not economically viable and will be stranded within 10 to 15 years, due to the low cost of wind and solar energy. In Xcel’s 2019 Colorado Energy Plan Xcel states “We are not building any new natural gas generation, reducing the risk of stranded costs”. So why in our own backyard? Central MN customers will bear those stranded costs, not Xcel. 

Wind and Solar works, even at peak times of use!

Xcel has asked the MN Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to accept their proposal to build a new gas plant in Becker. Please submit a public comment to the PUC asking them to deny Xcel’s proposed fracked gas plant and support Xcel’s expansion of solar and wind energy along with the development of energy storage. Submit your comments to the PUC at http://mn.gov/puc/consumers/speak-up/. Reference docket number 19-368. This will provide the jobs and future environmental protection we, and our children, all need here in central Minnesota.

Chuck Derry

Clearwater, MN