The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission has approved the Lake Charlotte Solar Project in Martin County, despite opposition from some area residents.
The project includes a 150 megawatt solar facility and a 600 megawatt hour battery storage system. The solar array will cover about 662 acres in Rutland Township, with the overall project area totaling more than 1,200 acres.
Construction is expected to begin in the third quarter of 2027, with operations planned for late 2029.
The project is expected to generate about $358,000 dollars annually in tax revenue, including $287,000 for Martin County and $71,000 in Rutland Township.
Residents raised concerns about farmland, wildlife, water quality, the project’s size and its proximity to Lake Charlotte. The PUC added conditions addressing visual impacts, noise, water protection, lighting, erosion and wildlife.
The next step is a preconstruction review before work can begin.
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