August 2026
Member Spotlight
In 2026, we will recognize one member each month, providing an organizational profile and highlighting the member's accomplishments in the smart energy space.
About Minnesota Power
Minnesota Power, a division of ALLETE, Inc., is an investor-owned utility that serves an approximately 26,000-square-mile service area in central and northeastern Minnesota. The company’s energy portfolio and customer programs are driven by its EnergyForward strategy as Minnesota Power remains committed to providing safe, reliable, affordable and increasingly clean energy to customers. Learn more at mnpower.com.
Powering EV Adoption in Greater Minnesota
For many drivers in northern Minnesota, one of the biggest obstacles to buying an electric vehicle (EV) has been access to reliable fast charging. Customer research consistently shows that range anxiety remains a top concern, particularly in rural areas where charging options have historically been limited and winter temperatures can reduce driving range.
To help address those concerns, Minnesota Power recently completed its DC Fast Charging Project, expanding fast-charging access across the company’s service territory and supporting travel along key regional routes.
Minnesota Power selected 15 strategic locations based on charging gaps, population density and traffic patterns. By analyzing existing and planned charging infrastructure, the company identified areas where drivers faced more than 30 miles between fast-charging stations and prioritized locations where new chargers could have the greatest impact.
Minnesota Power's site selection process looked beyond geography alone. The company focused on locations where drivers could conveniently stop, charge and access nearby amenities. Throughout the process, Minnesota Power worked closely with site hosts to address questions and concerns, identify the most suitable equipment locations and demonstrate how EV charging could serve as a valuable amenity for both their businesses and the surrounding community.
The company also incorporated environmental justice tools into its planning process, helping direct investments toward underserved communities when possible. The result is a robust charging network that gives drivers greater confidence, improves convenience and safety and supports broader EV adoption across the region.
Planning for Long-Term Success
Building charging stations is only part of the equation. Minnesota Power's DC fast-charger project highlighted several lessons that can help future charging projects succeed.
One key takeaway is the importance of thoughtful equipment selection. Factors such as repairability, interoperability and software capabilities all play a major role in long-term reliability. Charging management software is particularly important because it enables owners to monitor station performance, manage driver payments and meet reporting requirements.
Early coordination with site hosts is equally important. Addressing legal agreements, property ownership questions, setbacks and easements early in the process can help prevent delays later.
The project also reinforced that success doesn't end when a charger is energized. Clear operations and maintenance plans are essential to keeping chargers available and reliable for drivers. That includes defining who monitors equipment and responds to service issues when problems arise. EV driver support also needs to be considered; who will address EV driver questions and whether 24/7 support is necessary.
By planning for both installation and long-term operations, organizations can create charging networks that deliver positive experiences for EV drivers for years to come.
