Solar Project Point of Connection is "Big Win"
- Jun 23
- 2 min read
by Trinity Gruenberg
The Wadena County Commissioners held their regular meeting on Tuesday, June 9.
Bent Paddle Solar Project
Tim Clement of Invenergy explained that the Verndale solar project remains at 110 megawatts of solar generation, with the possibility of adding battery storage in the future. One of the major changes since the company’s last visit is how the project will connect to the electric grid.
Originally, Invenergy planned to connect by tapping a transmission line running east–west out of the Wing River substation. After a lengthy interconnection process with the grid operator, the project has now secured approval for a direct connection into the Wing River substation instead.
Clement said this new point of interconnection is considered a “big win” for the project because the land near the substation can host a significant amount of solar (and potential storage) and will make construction and grid connection simpler and more reliable.
However, the interconnection process has also pushed back the overall schedule.
The company now expects the Bent Paddle Solar project to begin operations in 2029, with construction projected for 2028–2029 and likely a winter shutdown period during that time.
From a permitting standpoint, Invenergy is preparing to file with the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission either late this year or early next year. Most environmental studies have been completed, with a few remaining to be finished before the permit filing.
The project area currently includes just over 2,000 acres under easement or purchase options. Clement noted that after detailed engineering and final design, the actual built project area is expected to be reduced to about 1,000 acres, with roughly 700 acres inside the fence line once constructed...
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