Brian Johnson//July 22, 2026//
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Xcel Energy completes Sherco Solar Phase 3
Depositphotos.com image
Brian Johnson//July 22, 2026//
Xcel Energy has completed the third phase of its Sherco Solar project, the largest solar facility in Minnesota and one of the biggest in the Upper Midwest, the utility company said in a press release.
The solar project, located near the existing Sherco plant in Becker, transforms a retiring coal plant into a “major renewable energy hub,” Xcel said. The site now produces 710 megawatts of electricity powered by 1.7 million solar panels.
A proposed fourth phase would increase the generating capacity to 910 megawatts, which is capable of powering more than 190,000 homes, Xcel said, adding that 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,” Bria Shea, president of Xcel Energy–Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota, said in the release. “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.”
Luke Molus, senior operations manager for Xcel Energy’s solar and storage sites, said, “As someone who grew up in this community and works at this site, it’s exciting to see the next chapter of Sherco taking shape. For decades, the Sherco plant has helped power our region, and today Sherco Solar is continuing that legacy by delivering reliable energy for customers and creating a new future for this site and the people who work here.”
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