Ruling Deals Setback to Proposed Power Plant in Superior

ST. PAUL (AP) -- An administrative law judge in Minnesota has dealt a setback to a proposed gas-fired power plant in Superior, Wisconsin.

Minnesota Power wants to join with Dairyland Power Cooperative to build the plant, saying it would provide backup for wind energy that the Minnesota utility is adding to its system.

But Judge Jeanne Cochran on Monday recommended that the Public Utilities Commission deny the request, saying Minnesota Power failed to prove the plant is needed.

Several clean energy groups oppose the project, saying approving the fossil fuel plant would make it impossible for Minnesota to meet its emissions targets.

Minnesota Power says it will be reviewing the judge's recommendations.

Her findings are not binding on the commission, which is expected to consider Minnesota Power's petition this fall.