Photo: National Grid Renewables
National Grid Renewables has broken ground on its 100 MW Apple River Solar project in Polk County, Wisconsin.
The Wisconsin solar farm, which will use US-made First Solar Series 6 Plus modules, will be built by The Boldt Company, creating 150 construction and supply jobs. Apple River Solar will generate more than $36 million in direct economic benefits during its first 20 years.
Once online in late 2025, Apple River Solar will provide clean energy to Xcel Energy, serving customers throughout the Upper Midwest. According to National Grid Renewables, the solar farm will generate enough energy to power about 26,000 homes a year. It will also reduce approximately 129,900 metric tons of carbon emissions each year – the equivalent of taking 30,900 cars off the road.
“We are excited to see this project begin as it underscores our commitment to delivering clean, reliable and affordable energy to our customers,” said Karl Hoesly, President, Xcel Energy-Wisconsin and Michigan. “This project is an important step toward those goals while bringing significant economic benefits to Polk County and local townships.”
Electrek reported in February that Xcel Energy, Minnesota's largest utility, expects to cut more than 80% – and possibly as much as 88% – of its emissions by 2030, putting it on track to hit Minnesota's net zero goal in 2040. It also says it is on track to meet its clean energy goals in every Upper Midwest state it operates in – Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Michigan.
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