As communities transition to using different types of energy, Michels is playing a critical role in ensuring that energy reaches those who depend on it. Michels Power has been selected as the general contractor for the Northland Reliability Project (NRP), which recently broke ground. NRP will support Minnesota’s energy grid and is one of the state’s most significant power projects.
NRP will support the energy grid as it transitions to more renewable sources of energy, increase capacity, enable transfer of different types of power generation, and improve the grid’s ability to withstand extreme weather events.
Approximately 180 miles of double-circuit 345-kV transmission line will be constructed in three phases. The first phase, expected to be completed by December 2027, will encompass the replacement of two existing transmission lines, including a new 20-mile line from Cherry Park Substation to Big Oaks Substation and a 20-mile line from Cherry Park Substation to Sherco Substation using double-circuit structures.
Phases two and three cover the construction of about 140 miles of new 345-kV double-circuit transmission lines. These lines will stretch from Iron Range Substation to Cherry Creek Substation, following existing transmission corridors. The grid additions and upgrades are scheduled to be operational by 2030.
Michels will perform foundation and transmission work as well as install matting to allow equipment to mobilize along the right-of-way without having a negative impact on the environment.
