Otter Tail Power to Focus on Renewable Energy, Compliance
Revised Strategy Prioritizes Reliability, Flexibility Amid Regulatory Changes
Operating out of Minnesota and North & South Dakota, Otter Tail Power’s updated integrated resource plan (IRP) outlines a series of targeted actions that the company aims to execute within the next five years. These actions include the installation of on-site LNG fuel storage at Astoria Station by 2026 and roughly 200 MW of wind generation capacity by 2029.
Otter Tail Power President Tim Rogelstad expressed concern about the Midcontinent Independent System Operator's (MISO) new minimum capacity planning requirements, questions surrounding MISO accreditation methodologies, and projected capacity deficits within MISO. Rogelstad highlighted the importance of retaining Otter Tail’s Coyote Station Plant existing dispatchable capacity.
The updated preferred plan seeks to ensure the availability of resources necessary to provide reliable electricity. It offers flexibility to respond to risks in a changing planning environment and complies with the requirements of applicable statutes and rules. The plan leverages Inflation Reduction Act incentives to reduce renewable energy generation costs.
The plan is under review by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission and the North Dakota Public Service Commission. While the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission (SD PUC) does not require any formal proceedings, Otter Tail has filed its IRP with the SD PUC as a stakeholder.
