MDU Resources Group Inc. expands its utility consortium. The company has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) with North Plains Connector LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Grid United, for 150 megawatts of capacity on the North Plains Connector transmission project, a 420-mile HVDC (high voltage direct current) line. Under the MOU, and subject to successful definitive agreement negotiations, MDU Resources would acquire 150 megawatts of the project’s total 3,000 megawatts once it comes online.
North Plains Connector LLC will continue to finance the development of the North Plains Connector. The project would represent a significant component of MDU’s energy portfolio, as the 150 megawatts of capacity corresponds to more than 15% of MDU’s projected 2024 peak demand. This proportion is in line with that of the other utilities participating in the North Plains Connector – Puget Sound Energy, Portland General Electric, Avista and NorthWestern Energy – whose participation in the project could cover approximately 15%, or more, of their respective projected 2024 peak demand.
