Greater Minnesota

 Wind and solar energy producers frustrated by connection delays, congestion in power grid
Across Minnesota, solar and wind companies are building new facilities to generate green energy. However, many are frustrated by long delays in getting connected to the power grid, and then when they do, many find they cannot operate at full capacity because the grid cannot handle it. 
‘It’s like losing a family member’: Former Lutsen Lodge owners of 30 years reflect on loss, legacy
The lodge has been a Minnesota landmark on the North Shore since 1885, making it the oldest resort in the state. Scott Harrison and Nancy Burns purchased the lodge in 1988 from the family who originally built it.
Historic North Shore lodge destroyed in overnight fire, owner plans to rebuild
The fire at the lodge along the Lake Superior shore was reported just after midnight, with staff members reporting smoke coming from the floor in the lobby area. Crews from eight fire departments battled the fire. The State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating.
On the cusp of a contentious election year, Ely finds new ways to talk about divisive issues
The northern Minnesota town has long been the epicenter of the state’s conflict around mining and the environment. Now, though, there’s a renewed effort in Ely to restart a civil discussion around long-standing divisions.
Event, park expansion to mark 100th anniversary of Milford mine disaster
On Feb. 5, 1924, 48 miners were finishing up their shift at the Milford mine near Crosby, when a mine shaft about 170 feet underground collapsed, rapidly flooding the mine with water and mud. Only seven survived.
Solar fence stops snow and generates electricity
Minnesota uses miles of snow fences to catch blowing snow before it drifts onto roadways in a typical winter. At a one-of-a-kind test site near Moorhead, researchers are finding a year-round use for the snow fence.
Xcel Energy proposes to keep operating nuclear plants until early 2050s
The utility’s latest resource plan also calls for adding solar and wind energy, battery storage and building two new natural gas plants for times of peak electricity demand.
Mora's Vasaloppet USA cross-country ski race canceled due to lack of snow
With “no ability to make additional snow or groom this week, we will not be able to put on a race worthy of the Vasaloppet name,” organizers of the longtime ski race in Mora announced Thursday.