Alliant Energy has announced plans to expand its existing Bent Tree Wind Farm in Freeborn County, Minnesota. The expansion will result in a new facility, the Bent Tree North Wind Farm, projected to generate an additional 153 megawatts (MW) of power—enough to supply electricity to at least 50,000 homes each year.
Location and Scope of Expansion
The proposed project will span 60 square miles and is located approximately 15 miles north of Albert Lea, near Hartland, along State Highway 13. It adds to the original Bent Tree Wind Farm, which has been operational since February 2011.
Current Operations and Regional Context
The current Farm operates 122 Vestas V82 1.65 MW turbines, generating roughly 200 MW of electricity. It stands among the largest wind farms in Minnesota, alongside the Buffalo Ridge (225 MW), Fenton (205.5 MW), Nobles (201 MW), and Odell (200 MW) wind farms.
Refurbishment Also Planned
Alongside the expansion, Alliant Energy is preparing for a full site refurbishment of the Bent Tree Wind Farm in Manchester and Hartland. This long-term project is scheduled to begin in the summer of 2025 and continue through November 2027.
Presentation to Local Officials
Details of the project were shared in March during a workshop with the Freeborn County Board of Commissioners by Richard Miller, senior strategic project manager at Alliant Energy, and Greg Kaelberer, site manager of the Bent Tree Wind Farm.
Wind Power Faces Political Headwinds
The expansion comes amid national debates over renewable energy, with wind power often caught in political crosswinds. President Donald Trump’s administration opposition contrasts with growing investments in wind projects across states like Minnesota, where utility companies continue to push forward with renewable energy as part of broader climate and energy strategies.
