This week, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission will hold final meetings and vote on whether or not to issue a "Certificate of Need" for high-powered electric lines in western Minnesota. Construction of the Big Stone II Coal Plant in Milibank, SD rests in the Commission's decision. Oxfam Action Corps - Minnesota opposes Big Stone II. Its construction would be a clossal step backward because burning coal contributes to the climate change menacing those already living on the fringes of subsistence. Renewable energy options that would create green jobs, such as wind turbines, should be built instead.
The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) must not issue the Certificate of Need. As described by Fresh Energy, Big Stone II failed to accurately report their likely construction and operating costs – a key element in the PUC's consideration of their application.
We urge you to attend the PUC's remaining meetings on January 13 at 1pm and January 15 at 9:30am in Saint Paul. Click here to get all the details from our friends at the Sierra Club's North Star Chapter. A strong showing by Big Stone II opponents could make a difference!
