The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has approved a site permit for the Gopher State Solar project, a large-scale renewable energy development in Renville County. The project site lies north of Bird Island, covering parts of Kingman, Osceola, and Bird Island townships.
Project Scope and Capacity
Gopher State Solar has secured 1,645 acres for the project, with about 977 acres set aside for the installation of solar panels. The facility will have the capacity to produce up to 200 megawatts (MW) of electricity using photovoltaic technology and will connect directly to Great River Energy’s Panther Substation.
Development Costs and Economic Impact
Development costs are estimated between $187.75 million and $242.5 million, covering construction, engineering, and permitting. Over its projected 40-year lifespan, the project is expected to generate approximately $32 million in tax revenue for the local community. Construction is planned to start in spring 2027, with commercial operations anticipated in late 2029.
Regulatory Review and Approval Process
In findings filed on June 2, Administrative Law Judge Kristien R.E. Butler recommended the PUC approve the permit. Butler concluded that the project meets environmental and regulatory requirements and acknowledged that Gopher State Solar has committed to addressing concerns raised by Renville County officials and a neighboring landowner during the review process.
What a 200 MW Solar Farm Means
The 200 MW capacity represents the maximum electricity the solar farm can produce under ideal sunlight conditions. To put that into perspective, 1 MW of solar can power roughly 190–200 average U.S. homes for a year. This means the Gopher State Solar project could generate enough electricity to supply about 38,000–40,000 homes annually.
A solar farm of this scale will not only supply clean energy to homes and businesses but also contribute to Minnesota’s renewable energy goals and help reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Over the decades, it is expected to offset millions of tons of carbon dioxide emissions by replacing electricity that would otherwise be generated from coal or natural gas.
Long-Term Benefits for Renville County
Large solar projects like this also bring economic benefits beyond tax revenue. The construction phase will create jobs, boost demand for local goods and services, and position Renville County as a key player in the state’s clean energy transition.
Project Fact Sheet
Location: Renville County, MN (north of Bird Island)
Townships Covered: Kingman, Osceola, Bird Island
Total Site Area: 1,645 acres
Solar Panel Coverage: 977 acres
Capacity: Up to 200 MW
Estimated Homes Powered: 38,000–40,000 annually
Technology: Photovoltaic solar panels
Connection Point: Great River Energy’s Panther Substation
Estimated Cost: $187.75M – $242.5M
Projected Tax Revenue: $32 million over 40 years
Construction Start: Spring 2027
Operational Start: Late 2029
Permit Approval Date: June 2, 2025
Judge’s Recommendation: Kristien R.E. Butler – Approved
