Apex and Great River Energy Sign Offtake Agreement with Innovative Solution to Transmission Constraints

Apex Clean Energy announced a power purchase agreement (PPA) and surplus interconnection service agreement (SISA) with electric cooperative Great River Energy for the 300 MW Big Bend Wind. This transaction represents the first PPA and SISA executed by Apex with the same counterparty, an approach that leverages the cooperative’s existing injection rights with MISO to bypass traditional interconnection hurdles and expedite project development.

“Thanks to this creative partnership, Apex and Great River Energy were able to overcome the transmission constraints that are plaguing energy projects across the country,” said Ken Young, Apex Clean Energy CEO. “This innovative contract structure allows Apex to deliver a project that will help achieve Minnesota’s statewide sustainability goals while driving local economic opportunity.”

Located in Cottonwood, Watonwan, and Martin Counties, Minnesota, Big Bend will help Great River Energy meet its 2035 targets to reach 90% carbon-free retail electric sales and reduce its emissions by more than 90% from 2005 base levels. 

Big Bend Wind will create significant economic benefits for the surrounding area, including approximately $38 million in new tax revenue, 300 jobs during construction, and up to 14 permanent operations and maintenance roles. Slated to begin commercial operations in 2028, the project has already distributed $73,500 in grant funds to local organizations and will contribute an additional $1.8 million over its lifetime to charitable activities in nearby communities.

Apex Clean Energy | apexcleanenergy.com