CLEAR LAKE, MN, July 23, 2026 – Xcel Energy has completed Sherco Solar Phase 3, bringing the project to 710 megawatts of capacity across 1.7 million panels at the site of its retiring Sherco coal plant. Sherco Solar is the largest solar facility in Minnesota and one of the largest in the Upper Midwest. The project converts part of the existing power plant site from coal generation to solar power.
Xcel Energy has proposed a fourth phase that would increase Sherco Solar’s total capacity to 910 megawatts by 2029. At that capacity, the facility could generate enough electricity to serve more than 190,000 homes. The expansion will create about 300 construction jobs and provide $90 million in economic benefits.
“Completing Sherco Solar Phase 3 is a significant step in our efforts to deliver the reliable, affordable and increasingly clean energy our customers expect,” said Bria Shea, president of Xcel Energy – Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. “This project demonstrates how we can build upon existing infrastructure and workforce expertise to meet growing energy needs, create economic opportunities for Minnesota communities and continue advancing our renewable energy transition.”
“As someone who grew up in this community and works at this site, it’s exciting to see the next chapter of Sherco taking shape,” said Luke Molus, senior operations manager for Xcel Energy’s solar and storage sites. “For decades, the Sherco plant has helped power our region, and today Sherco Solar is continuing that legacy by delivering reliable energy for customers and creating a new future for this site and the people who work here.”
Source: Xcel Energy
About Xcel Energy
Xcel Energy supplies electricity and natural gas through regulated utilities in eight U.S. states. The company generates, purchases, transmits, distributes and sells electricity to residential and business customers. It also distributes natural gas and operates pipelines, storage facilities and transmission systems. Customers include households, businesses, industrial facilities, municipalities and other public-sector organizations. Xcel Energy offers energy efficiency programs, renewable energy options and account management services. Its power generation sources include wind, solar, nuclear, natural gas and coal. The company was incorporated in Minnesota in 1909. It is headquartered in Minneapolis. Xcel Energy serves customers in Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas and Wisconsin. The company served about 4 million electric customers and 2.3 million natural gas customers. It employs 11,500 full-time workers.