PUC pulls plug on coal gasification plant
by Bob Kelleher, Minnesota Public RadioSt. Paul, Minn. — The Public Utilities Commission has pulled the plug on a proposed Iron Range coal gasification power plant.
The PUC voted unanimously Thursday to close the docket on Excelsior Energy's bid to force Xcel Energy to buy electric power from the proposed Iron Range power plant.
Excelsior had hoped to build a coal gasification power plant, capable of capturing a portion of the plant's carbon output.
The PUC wasn't willing to accept the terms offered Xcel, including price. But state law could force an agreement if Excelsior can come up with a better deal.
Excelsior Energy's Tom Micheletti says his company will appeal the PUC's decision.
Bob Kelleher
• ReporterBob Kelleher joined MPR's Duluth News staff in 1990, after three years with a Duluth commercial radio station, and several years on broadcast stations in Iowa.
