Wausau-to-Duluth Power Line Approved

Wausau-to-Duluth Power Line Approved The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) has unanimously agreed that construction of the 250-mile Wausau-to-Duluth electric transmission line is necessary. The joint project of Minnesota Power, an ALLETE Company (NYSE:ALE) and Wisconsin Public Service Corporation, a subsidiary of WPS Resources Corporation (NYSE:WPS) was originally announced on April 15, 1999. The Minnesota portion of the project was approved in March.

Before construction can begin, the PSCW will issue its final order in the next several weeks, prescribing specifics on the transmission line's route.

In a joint statement by Patrick Schrickel, President and Chief Operating Officer of Wisconsin Public Service and Don Shippar, Chief Operating Officer of Minnesota Power, the project partners praised the PSCW's decision. "We thank the commission and the staff for undertaking a rigorous review of a lengthy record, a record which, when evaluated objectively, clearly demonstrated the obvious need for this project and the benefits it will provide to all citizens of Wisconsin.

"It's a key first step in improving the reliability of a fragile transmission system. Currently, we are not always able to either import necessary power into the state nor are we able to move bulk amounts of power within the state to where it is needed. A deficient electrical system is not good for Wisconsin, Minnesota or for the Midwest," added the two spokespersons.

Both thanked everyone who participated in this thorough process which lasted two-and-a-half years. "We realize people along the route may not want a transmission line, but the benefits of this project to all the people of the region necessitate its construction."

"Both companies fully intend to work with all private and public landowners who may be impacted by this project," said Shippar. "We both have a solid history of dealing fairly when working with landowners. We will work to continue that record," added Schrickel.

Minnesota Power, Inc., provides low-cost electric service in northeastern and central Minnesota. A subsidiary--Superior Water, Light and Power--provides electricity, natural gas and water to customers in Superior and adjacent areas in northwestern Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Public Service Corporation, based in Green Bay, provides electricity and natural gas to 400,000 customers in a 19-county area in northeastern and central Wisconsin, and a portion of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.