Xcel Energy announced this week their Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) — which includes the retirement of all Xcel Energy owned coal plants in the Upper Midwest. 

 

Sherco Unit 3, located in Becker, would close in 2030, about 10 years earlier than initially projected.

 

With this plan, Becker is positioned for the buildout of a natural gas plant to ensure Xcel Energy’s rates can remain reliable and cost effective. 

 

“The announcement of the coal plant closures will have a large impact on our community,” said Mayor Tracy Bertram. “Our community has requested the assistance from the state legislature that would assist with infrastructure expansion in our business park to help us attract new businesses to transition from a coal-based economy.” 

 

Bertram says that although the closure will result in a loss of jobs and tax base, this is an opportunity to expand the city’s partnerships as they make this coal based economy transition successful for the City of Becker, Sherburne County, and the State of Minnesota.

 

The City of Becker ensures its residents they will continue to work with stakeholders to ensure long term sustainability of the community by attracting new large scale businesses.