FAIRMONT — The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission has approved the Lake Charlotte Solar Project in Martin County, despite concerns raised by some nearby residents. The project, developed by Geronimo Power and Lake Charlotte Solar, will include 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 covering more than 1,200 acres. Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with the project becoming operational in late 2029. The project is expected to generate about 358-thousand dollars in annual tax revenue for 30 years, including roughly 287-thousand dollars for Martin County and 71-thousand dollars for Rutland Township. During public comment periods, residents raised concerns about farmland, wildlife, water quality, the project’s size and its proximity to Lake Charlotte. The Public Utilities Commission required several changes, including visual screening for nearby homes, noise conditions, wildlife-friendly lighting, erosion controls and additional protections related to water. Martin County Commissioner Billeye Rabbe says residents are divided on the project, but the county had little authority over the decision because the project falls under state Public Utilities Commission jurisdiction. The next step is a pre-construction review, during which project officials will work with the P-U-C to meet required conditions before construction begins.
