Welcome to the EDGE Circle, NextEra Energy Resource, as a New Excellence Sponsor!

Benton Economic Partnership, Inc. is proud to announce that NextEra Energy Resources has joined the EDGE Circle as an Excellence Sponsor! This is the highest level of investment that an organization can choose and reflects NextEra Energy Resources’ commitment to the future of Benton County.

“NextEra Energy Resources continues to invest in the community and provide clear communication regarding their projects,” says Amanda Othoudt, Executive Director for Benton Economic Partnership, Inc.

Learn more about NextEra Energy Resources and the impact it will have on Benton County through its solar project and enrollment as an EDGE Excellence Sponsor. 

The Benton Solar Project Breaks Ground This Year

In Benton County, NextEra Energy Resources is best known for the Benton Solar project, which will have a capacity to generate up to 100 megawatts of energy and the capacity to store 100 megawatts. NextEra Energy Resources is breaking ground on the project this year and is scheduled to wrap up construction by the end of 2027.

“We make it our goal to be community partners in any way we can,” says Adam Gracia, solar project manager for NextEra Energy Resources. “We want to be good neighbors to the people of Benton County.”

In the short run, this project will create between 150 and 300 temporary construction jobs. Once operational, the site will create three to five full-time jobs.

NextEra Energy Resources conducted an economic impact study with Dr. King Banaian at St. Cloud State University, estimating that the project will generate $200,000 in annual tax revenue for the county and $50,000 for Minden Township. This tax revenue isn’t allocated to any specific projects and can be used as the county and township see fit.

NextEra Energy Resources has voluntary leases with landowners in the county to install its solar panels. This creates an additional source of income for local families, many of whom have farmed the land for generations. The energy company also has vegetation management and seeding plans to preserve soil health through the life of the project.

“The Benton Solar project addresses energy needs in the state of Minnesota,” says Gracia.

NextEra Energy Resources has permits to manage the solar panels for the next 30 years. Afterward, it will need to reapply and seek public opinion as to whether they should continue the project in Benton County. 

NextEra Energy Joined the EDGE Circle to Give Back

NextEra Energy Resources has worked closely with Othoudt throughout the development of the Benton Solar project. She works as a connector, pairing NextEra Energy Resources with local leaders and introducing the company to organizations. 
 
“Amanda Othoudt knows everything that’s going on in Benton County, and she has been making amazing connections for us,” says Gracia. “We recently donated to the Foley High School weight room because she let us know that they were looking for sponsors.”  

Joining the EDGE Circle helps NextEra Energy Resources stay top of mind with the community and demonstrates that the organization is giving back.

“We want to thank the Benton Economic Partnership for being such a great partner,” says Gracia. “They have stood out as an invaluable resource throughout this project. Being an EDGE sponsor and member is an exciting opportunity for us.” 

Your Organization Can Also Join the EDGE Circle

Benton Economic Partnership, Inc. is currently accepting members to the EDGE Circle. This program is for local visionaries who want to invest in economic development and participate in community growth. EDGE stands for Empowering Development, Growth, and Excellence, and is ideal for companies that want to contribute financially while promoting their brands.

There are multiple investment levels based on what your organization can afford. Learn more about the EDGE Circle and how to participate today.