Criterion News

• 12/17/2020 - Tenaska Completes 250-MW... (subscriber access)
• 12/26/2019 - Minnesota Court Delay... (subscriber access)
• 3/15/2018 - ALLETE Announces Plans... (subscriber access)
• 3/1/2018 - ALLETE Clean Energy... (subscriber access)
• 6/7/2017 - Nobles 2 Power Partners... (subscriber access)
• 3/16/2017 - Xcel Energy Announces Plans for 1,550-MW in Midwestern Wind Capacity
• 1/3/2017 - Montana-Dakota Utilities... (subscriber access)

Press Releases

3/1/2018 - Montana-Dakota Utilities signs agreement to purchase North Dakota wind farm expansion
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Montana-Dakota Utilities signs agreement to purchase North Dakota wind farm expansion
Source: PR Newswire
Orignial Article: https://www.prnewswire.co...
BISMARCK, N.D., March 1, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Montana-Dakota Utilities Co., a division of MDU Resources Group (NYSE: MDU), announced today that it has signed an agreement to purchase a North Dakota wind farm expansion to be developed by ALLETE Clean Energy (ACE), a subsidiary of ALLETE, Inc. (NYSE: ALE).
The expansion of Thunder Spirit Wind, located near Hettinger, North Dakota, will boost the combined production at the wind farm to approximately 155 megawatts of renewable energy, and will increase Montana-Dakota's generation portfolio from 22 percent renewables to 27 percent.
"We are committed to investing capital resources to meet the needs of our customers and our growing legacy business," said David L. Goodin, president and CEO of MDU Resources Group. "This project is a positive step in executing that plan and will be a great cost-effective addition to Montana-Dakota's generation portfolio."
The original 107.5-MW Thunder Spirit Wind project was constructed by ACE and included 43 turbines; it was purchased by Montana-Dakota in December 2015. The expansion calls for 16 turbines producing 48 MW.
The project's cost is approximately $85 million and is expected to be online in late 2018.
Montana-Dakota originally signed a power purchase agreement with ACE for the expansion's generation, with an option to purchase the project. Montana-Dakota determined that owning the project was the least-cost option for its customers. The North Dakota Public Service Commission approved Montana-Dakota's request for an advance determination of prudence for purchasing the expansion in November 2017, noting that electricity produced at the site is expected to be more economical than energy purchased on the market.
"Our relationship with ACE on the first phase of Thunder Spirit Wind proved to be a winning formula. We need additional energy to meet our growing demands, and with the easements, interconnection to the grid and permits already in place from the first phase of Thunder Spirit Wind, it makes this a great project for our Montana-Dakota customers," said company President and CEO Nicole Kivisto.
The wind farm location is beneficial in that it allows Montana-Dakota to connect the project to its transmission system in an area the company already provides electric service, further enhancing the company's deliverability of power to its customers.
"We're proud that MDU again chose ACE to develop and build a second wind project that will benefit its customers, the state of North Dakota and the local Adams County economy. Wind energy is a valuable resource in North Dakota, and ALLETE Clean Energy is looking forward to applying our experience to bring the project to fruition," said Allan S. Rudeck Jr., president of ALLETE Clean Energy.
Forward-Looking Statements
The information in this release includes certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The forward-looking statements contained in this release, including statements by the president and chief executive officer of MDU Resources and president and CEO of Montana-Dakota, are expressed in good faith and are believed by the company to have a reasonable basis. Nonetheless, actual results may differ materially from the projected results expressed in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include  receiving the necessary permits and regulatory approvals in a timely manner, the schedule and costs to complete, qualification for tax credits, other risks incidental to the operation of a wind farm; and the effects on operations of extensive environmental laws and regulations. For a discussion of other important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements, refer to Item 1A – Risk Factors in MDU Resources' most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q.
About MDU Resources
MDU Resources Group, Inc., a member of the S&P MidCap 400 index and the S&P High-Yield Dividend Aristocrats index, is Building a Strong America® by providing essential products and services through its regulated energy delivery and construction materials and services businesses. For more information about MDU Resources, see the company's website at www.mdu.com or contact the Investor Relations Department at investor@mduresources.com.
Contacts
Financial:
Jason Vollmer, vice president, chief financial officer and treasurer, 701-530-1755
Media:
Mark Hanson, senior public relations representative, 701-530-1093
 
View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/montana-dakota-utilities-signs-agreement-to-purchase-north-dakota-wind-farm-expansion-300606633.html
SOURCE MDU Resources Group, Inc.

Article Date
3/1/2018
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6/7/2017 - Nobles 2 Power Partners Signs Long-term Power Purchase Agreement with Utility Customer for Minnesota Wind Project
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Nobles 2 Power Partners Signs Long-term Power Purchase Agreement with Utility Customer for Minnesota Wind Project
Source: PR Newswire
Orignial Article: http://www.prnewswire.com...
OMAHA, Neb., June 7, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Nobles 2 Power Partners, an affiliate of independent energy company Tenaska, has signed a long-term power purchase agreement with Duluth-based Minnesota Power, a utility division of ALLETE, Inc. (NYSE: ALE), to deliver 250 megawatts (MW) of renewable power from a wind project in southwest Minnesota.
The Nobles 2 project, currently in advanced development, is located near Wilmont in Nobles County. Under the terms of the 20-year power purchase agreement, the project is anticipated to be operational in December 2019.
"We are pleased to be working with Minnesota Power to bring more renewable generation to the region," said Joel Link, vice president in Tenaska's Strategic Development & Acquisitions Group. "This project exemplifies our ability to capitalize on 30 years of success in greenfield development and power generation in the growing wind energy sector."
Tenaska, based in Omaha, Nebraska, has successfully developed approximately 10,000 MW of natural gas-fueled and renewable power projects. The company has mid- to advanced-stage wind development projects in the Midwest and is considering opportunities across the United States.
The Nobles 2 project will complement Minnesota Power's EnergyForward strategy that has the company on pace to deliver 44 percent of its energy from renewable sources by 2025, reduce carbon emissions by 40 percent by 2030 and exceed the state of Minnesota's renewable energy goals.
"Capturing this competitive wind resource will strengthen Minnesota Power's growing renewable portfolio and add geographic diversity to our wind sector," said Julie Pierce, Minnesota Power vice president-strategy and planning. "Building this new relationship and a broader renewable energy mix will benefit Minnesota Power customers by adding more safe, clean and reliable power."
The Nobles 2 project is part of a wind development portfolio that Tenaska acquired last fall from Minneapolis-based developer PRC Wind, which continues to provide development support services for the project.
The Nobles 2 project will interconnect to the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) regional transmission system. Construction is expected to begin in the second half of 2018.
The facility will consist of up to 125 wind turbines. Vestas is anticipated to supply the wind turbines and provide maintenance services for the project.
Construction and operation of the Nobles 2 project is expected to boost the local economy, with a total estimated cost of approximately $400 million. The project will create up to 230 jobs during peak construction and up to 20 full-time jobs when operational, in addition to providing opportunities for local businesses to provide goods and services for the project.
About Nobles 2 Power Partners
Nobles 2 Power Partners was formed to build, own and operate a wind project in Nobles County, Minnesota. Nobles 2 Power Partners is an affiliate of Tenaska, an energy company based in Omaha, Nebraska. Tenaska and its affiliates have developed approximately 10,000 megawatts (MW) of natural gas-fueled and renewable power generation, and currently manage operations for approximately 7,000 MW of power generation consisting of nine power plants. For more information, visit www.tenaska.com.
 
SOURCE Nobles 2 Power Partners

Article Date
6/7/2017
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6/7/2017 - Dairyland Power Announces Natural Gas Plant Partnership
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Dairyland Power Announces Natural Gas Plant Partnership
Source: PR Newswire
Orignial Article: http://www.prnewswire.com...
LA CROSSE, Wis., June 7, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Dairyland Power Cooperative announced plans for a renewable energy enabling 525-550 MW combined cycle natural gas facility at its 76^th annual meeting today. This project is in partnership with Minnesota Power, a utility division of ALLETE (NYSE: ALE), based in Duluth.
The Nemadji Trail Energy Center will be co-developed by Dairyland and Minnesota Power. The site is located along the Nemadji River in Superior, Wis., adjacent to the service territories of both partners. Bayfield Electric and other Dairyland member cooperatives have served northwestern Wisconsin for decades.
Barbara Nick, President and CEO, announced this expansion as a significant component of Dairyland's ongoing "Preferred Plan" for resource diversification during her annual meeting address. The Nemadji Trail Energy Center will provide an agile and affordable resource that supports the major wind and solar energy investments Dairyland continues to implement. The partnership announcement aligns with Dairyland's annual meeting theme, United We Shine.
"We've talked for a long time about the need to add natural gas as a renewable-enabling resource," said Nick. "Dairyland's resource diversification strategy enables renewable forms of generation and ensures reliability, sustainability and affordability. Natural gas plants provide critical back-up to intermittent renewable sources of power, like solar and wind. The Nemadji Trail Energy Center will respond on demand, providing the energy required by our membership and Minnesota Power's customers exactly when they need it—at the flip of a switch."
Nemadji Trail Energy Center Facts
• Agile, flexible and affordable energy source to enable renewable resources such as wind and solar.
• Proposed 525 to 550 MW combined cycle natural gas plant. It is scheduled to be in service by 2024, contingent on regulatory approvals.
• Proposed at shovel-ready, industrial site controlled by the project partners in northwest Wisconsin. Fuel availability is excellent, with access to natural gas pipelines.
• Co-developed by Dairyland Power Cooperative and Minnesota Power. Both organizations have served the region for decades.
• Will serve as an economic engine for the region through job and commerce stimulus.
• Will support energy-intensive regional industries (manufacturing, forestry, mining).
Additional 76^th Annual Meeting Highlights
Approximately 600 electric cooperative leaders and guests attended Dairyland's 76th annual meeting at the La Crosse Center earlier today. Roger Tjarks, Chairman of the Board and director representing Heartland Power Cooperative, presided over the meeting.
Dairyland Chief Financial and Administrative Officer (CFO/CAO) Phil Moilien provided a 2016 Financial Report: "Dairyland focuses on maintaining strong credit ratings and financial strength to maintain access to economical financing.  Stable rates for 2017 reflect Dairyland's efficiency improvements and wise management of controllable costs and risk. Ensuring rates and services are competitive is critical to the economic well-being of the region as well as the long-term viability of Dairyland and our cooperative members."
For 2016, net margins were $23.1 million, compared to 2015 margins of $26.7 million. A mild winter and decreased energy use by some commercial customers contributed to slightly lower energy loads.
Total operating revenues for 2016 decreased slightly to $414.8 million, as compared to $418.3 million in 2015, due to a mild winter and low energy market prices. Total operating expenses also decreased slightly, due to lower fuel and purchased power costs.
Dairyland Vice President, External and Member Relations, Brian Rude welcomed legislators and special guests. "Since politics impacts many aspects of the energy industry, bipartisan collaboration between cooperatives and legislators is very important," said Rude.
The meeting also included a video highlighting the history of Dairyland's shut-down nuclear facility, LACBWR, and current decommissioning activities. Longtime Dairyland employees received service awards at the annual meeting. Employees staffed informational booths on sustainability, solar energy projects, energy efficiency and information technology. A variety of electric vehicles were on site for cooperative members and employees to view and test drive.
About Dairyland Power Cooperative:  Dairyland, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative, was formed in December 1941. Headquartered in La Crosse, Wis., Dairyland provides the wholesale electrical requirements for 24 distribution cooperatives and 17 municipal utilities. These cooperatives and municipals, in turn, supply the energy needs of more than a half-million people in the four-state service area. Today, the cooperative's generating resources include coal, natural gas, hydro, wind, solar and biogas. Dairyland delivers electricity via 3,195 miles of transmission lines and 292 substations located throughout the system's 44,500 square mile service area. Visit www.DairylandPower.com.
About Minnesota Power: Minnesota Power is a utility company based in Duluth, Minn., and is owned by ALLETE, Inc., a provider of affordable, reliable energy services in the Upper Midwest. Minnesota Power serves about 145,000 residential and commercial customers, 16 municipalities and some of the nation's largest industrial customers in northeastern Minnesota.
 
SOURCE Dairyland Power Cooperative

Article Date
6/7/2017
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5/24/2016 - Cliffs Announces Agreements with Minnesota Power
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Cliffs Announces Agreements with Minnesota Power
Source: PR Newswire
CLEVELAND, May 24, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Cliffs Natural Resources Inc. (NYSE: CLF) announced today that through its subsidiaries it has entered into multiple agreements with Minnesota Power, a utility division of ALLETE Inc. (NYSE: ALE).  Cliffs will receive $31 million dollars in cash as part of a long-term purchased power arrangement for its Northshore operation with Minnesota Power through 2031. The agreements, pending potential regulatory approval of the sale of utility assets,   include certain non-core operations;   transmission assets at United Taconite; certain land options at United Taconite and Northshore Mining Company; and transportation rights along the Cliffs Erie rail assets.  Separately, Cliffs has extended its regulated power arrangements with Minnesota Power for 10 years at its United Taconite and Babbitt facilities.
Lourenco Goncalves, Cliffs' Chairman, President and CEO, said, "I am very pleased that we solidified a strategic relationship with Minnesota Power for long-term, low cost power which helps us preserve our future competitiveness. Importantly, the signing of these new agreements will provide Cliffs with considerable certainty in our energy management for these operations, and will also enable us to continue to improve our cash production costs over the long-term."
"We greatly value our working relationship with Cliffs and believe strong mining and paper industries are critical to our region's economic success," said Al Hodnik, ALLETE Chairman, President and CEO. "These agreements demonstrate the value of a strong partnership between Minnesota Power and Northeastern Minnesota's natural resources industries. These steps can help Cliffs achieve its goals of remaining competitive, maintaining regional jobs and further enhancing their products through technology advances."
Cliffs stated that the supply agreement will not involve any immediate staff reductions at its Silver Bay Power plant. 
About Cliffs Natural Resources Inc.
Cliffs Natural Resources Inc. is a leading mining and natural resources company in the United States. The Company is a major supplier of iron ore pellets to the North American steel industry from its mines and pellet plants located in Michigan and Minnesota. Cliffs also operates an iron ore mining complex in Western Australia. Driven by the core values of safety, social, environmental and capital stewardship, Cliffs' employees endeavor to provide all stakeholders operating and financial transparency. News releases and other information on the Company are available at www.cliffsnaturalresources.com.
About Minnesota Power:
Minnesota Power provides electric service within a 26,000-square-mile area in northeastern Minnesota, supporting comfort, security and quality of life for 144,000 customers, 16 municipalities and some of the largest industrial customers in the United States. More information can be found at www.mnpower.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws.  As a general matter, forward-looking statements relate to anticipated trends and expectations rather than historical matters.  Forward-looking statements are subject to uncertainties and factors relating to Cliffs' operations and business environment that are difficult to predict and may be beyond our control.  Such uncertainties and factors may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements.  These statements speak only as of the date of this release, and we undertake no ongoing obligation, other than that imposed by law, to update these statements.  Uncertainties and risk factors that could affect Cliffs' future performance and cause results to differ from the forward-looking statements in this release include, but are not limited to: trends affecting our financial condition, results of operations or future prospects, particularly the continued volatility of iron ore prices; availability of capital and our ability to maintain adequate liquidity, in particular considering borrowing base reductions from the sale of non-core assets; our level of indebtedness could limit cash flow available to fund working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions and other general corporate purposes or ongoing needs of our business, which could prevent us from fulfilling our debt obligations; continued weaknesses in global economic conditions, including downward pressure on prices caused by oversupply or imported products, including the impact of any reduced barriers to trade, recently filed and forthcoming trade cases, reduced market demand and any change to the economic growth rate in China; our ability to reach agreement with our iron ore customers regarding any modifications to sales contract provisions, renewals or new arrangements, including with ArcelorMittal; uncertainty relating to restructurings in the steel industry and/or affecting the steel industry; our ability to maintain appropriate relations with unions and employees and enter into or renew collective bargaining agreements on satisfactory terms; the impact of our customers reducing their steel production or using other methods to produce steel;  our ability to successfully execute an exit option for certain of our Canadian entities that minimizes the cash outflows and associated liabilities of such entities, including the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act (Canada) process; our ability to successfully identify and consummate any strategic investments and complete planned divestitures; our ability to successfully diversify our product mix and add new customers beyond our traditional blast furnace clientele; the outcome of any contractual disputes with our customers, joint venture partners or significant energy, material or service providers or any other litigation or arbitration; the ability of our customers and joint venture partners to meet their obligations to us on a timely basis or at all; the impact of price-adjustment factors on our sales contracts; changes in sales volume or mix; our actual levels of capital spending; our actual economic iron ore reserves or reductions in current mineral estimates, including whether any mineralized material qualifies as a reserve; events or circumstances that could impair or adversely impact the viability of a mine and the carrying value of associated assets, as well as any resulting impairment charges; the results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies in relation to projects; impacts of existing and increasing governmental regulation and related costs and liabilities, including failure to receive or maintain required operating and environmental permits, approvals, modifications or other authorization of, or from, any governmental or regulatory entity and costs related to implementing improvements to ensure compliance with regulatory changes; our ability to cost-effectively achieve planned production rates or levels; uncertainties associated with natural disasters, weather conditions, unanticipated geological conditions, supply or price of energy, equipment failures and other unexpected events; adverse changes in currency values, currency exchange rates, interest rates and tax laws; risks related to international operations; availability of capital equipment and component parts; the potential existence of significant deficiencies or material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting; and problems or uncertainties with productivity, tons mined, transportation, mine-closure obligations, environmental liabilities, employee-benefit costs and other risks of the mining industry. For additional factors affecting the business of Cliffs, refer to Part I – Item 1A. Risk Factors of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015. You are urged to carefully consider these risk factors.
 
SOURCE Cliffs Natural Resources Inc.

Article Date
5/24/2016
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Direct Assets

Related Assets

Direct Projects

Thunder Spirit Wind Project Phase II (subscriber access)
Status: (subscriber access)
Clean Energy 1 Wind Project (subscriber access)
Status: (subscriber access)
Nobles 2 Wind Farm (subscriber access)
Status: (subscriber access)

Related Projects

Nemadji Trail Natural Gas Power Plant (subscriber access)
Status: (subscriber access)
Parent Entities: Minnesota Power
Dairyland Power Coop

South Peak Wind Project (subscriber access)
Status: (subscriber access)
Parent Entities: ALLETE Clean Energy

Thunder Spirit Wind Project Phase II (subscriber access)
Status: (subscriber access)
Parent Entities: ALLETE, Inc.