News Releases

Xcel Energy to perform surveys by helicopter for new transmission lines near Buffalo Ridge

MINNEAPOLIS - Beginning Monday (Jan. 14) and continuing for two to four weeks, Xcel Energy will conduct a survey by helicopter of proposed routes for several new electric transmission lines in southwestern Minnesota and eastern South Dakota.

The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission has determined the new lines are needed to transmit power generated at wind farms on Buffalo Ridge to the Twin Cities. Regulators in both Minnesota and South Dakota still must approve routes for the lines. Construction will begin after routes are approved, and project completion is targeted for spring of 2009.

The survey flights will occur during daylight hours, and the helicopter will fly within 50 feet of the proposed routes or hover near a proposed transmission structure location if something needs a closer look. Typically, the flights are conducted at speeds of 50 to 60 miles per hour.

Data collected will enable Xcel Energy to design the new transmission lines. Crews performing ground surveys also will be in working in the area.

The helicopter flight schedule will depend upon weather and other factors, but tentatively the survey will begin in southwestern Minnesota and end in eastern South Dakota. The proposed routes are in Murray, Nobles, Lyon and Lincoln counties in Minnesota and in Brookings County, South Dakota.