Constructed in the late 1970's, Coal Creek Generating Station is a steam generating
facility owned by Great River Energy, a consolidation of United Power Association (UPA) and Cooperative Power
Association (CPA), two Minnesota-based firms, who constructed the facility to generate
and deliver power to a number of rural electric cooperatives in Minnesota. The twin 550
megawatt generators make the facility the largest lignite coal fired plant in America.
Twin 658 foot high smokestacks highlight the huge generating complex and are seen
from over 30 miles away. Electricity is transported to Minnesota over direct current transmission lines for distribution to 29 rural electric
cooperatives. Electrical power is also delivered to Wisconsin.
The generating station is located
adjacent to US Highway 83 between Washburn and Underwood.
The plant annually burns about eight million tons of lignite coal which is mined at
nearby Falkirk Mine. A number of by-products from the plant are being sold commercially
and include both fly and bottom ash, remaining residues from the burned lignite.
Additional information on Great River Energy and Coal Creek Station can be obtained from their web site at
www.greatriverenergy.com.
This page was last updated on Monday, February 07, 2005 03:25 PM.
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