Xcel Energy announced the completion of Sherco Solar Phase 3, marking another major milestone in the company's transformation of a retiring coal plant into a major renewable energy hub. Located near the existing Sherco plant in Becker, Sherco Solar is the largest solar facility in Minnesota and one of the biggest in the Upper Midwest. With the first three phases online, the site now produces 710 megawatts of electricity powered by 1.7 million solar panels.

A proposed fourth phase would bring the Sherco Solar’s total generating capacity to 910 megawatts – capable of powering more than 190,000 homes – by 2029. The expansion will create an estimated 300 union construction jobs and $90 million in local economic benefits.

"Completing Sherco Solar Phase 3 is a significant step in our efforts to deliver the reliable, affordable and increasingly clean energy our customers expect," according to Bria Shea, President of Xcel Energy–Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. "This project demonstrates how we can build upon existing infrastructure and workforce expertise to meet growing energy needs, create economic opportunities for Minnesota communities and continue advancing our renewable energy transition."