Regulators approve ND part of power line project

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — North Dakota's Public Service Commission has split on its approval of the route of a major new power line.

The line will carry electricity from Fargo to St. Cloud and Monticello in Minnesota. Supporters of the “CapX2020” project say it will increase North Dakota's ability to export electric power, and will help the electric system's reliability.

The commission voted 2-1 on Wednesday to approve the project's 33-mile route in North Dakota. It loops around south Fargo before crossing the Red River.

Commission Chairman Brian Kalk says the project does a good job of balancing the interests of people along the route.

Commissioner Kevin Cramer voted no. He argues the power line route is too disruptive to communities south of Fargo.

Tags: news, north, dakota, updates