What is the process to get power to my building site?
The process is defined in our new construction guide.
How much will it cost me to get power?
The Estimate depends on 1) location of existing facilities, 2) how far back on the property you are building, and 3) if you want overhead or underground service.
If you build 300 feet or less from the roadside and request underground service, Minnesota Power will come from an existing source of power (Minnesota Power-owned distribution) and install transformation and metering equipment at the end of your driveway on the lot line. Customer is responsible for hiring a contractor to install the underground service from that point to the house location (Check local/state electrical codes if you want to do the work yourself). If facilities are available near the driveway or directly across the road to tap into, usually the line extension credit of $850 towards construction covers the cost of MP owned facilities (unless the customer service rep finds problems when they do a site visit). If a source of power is not available, the customer will be responsible for the costs to bring a line to the site at the cost of $6.50 a lineal foot minus $850.
If you build more than 300 feet from the roadside, Minnesota Power will come into the property with facilities, however, we will stop approximately 300 feet from the building site. The representative would measure the route, take that amount times $6.50/ft and subtract off $850 (line extension credit granted toward construction).
If you want overhead service, Minnesota Power will extend service all the way to the side of the building. We charge $6.50 per lineal foot minus $850 credit.
How long will it take for me to get power?
The amount of time it takes depends on some things we need from you.
Before MP can install electric service, we need:
- A Fully completed application for new electric service & sketch
- A Blue copy of state electrical inspection (Link to Instructions) or receipt of a city electrical inspection if project is in Duluth proper, Hoyt Lakes, or Biwabik.
- All necessary permits/easements- i.e. road permits, DNR, Railroad crossings, etc.
- Payment to MP as quoted by your MP Service Representative
- MP approved site preparation
Can I complete my own wiring without an electrical contractor?
It depends on where you are building. For more information about wiring your own home, check out our Wiring Inspection section.
Who is responsible for the underground cable from the meter pedestal to my home?
The customer and/or their electrical contractor is responsible for the installation and maintenance of this cable including any future locating of the cable.
How can I get temporary power for construction and is there a cost for this?
If you are being served via lot line metering, your contractor will tap off the meter pedestal to provide you temporary construction power. If you are not being served via lot line metering, see our Temporary Electric Service area for applicable charges.
Where will my meter be located?
Link to Meter Location area on new construction guide.
Can MP’s meter pedestal be used for the main disconnect for a manufactured home?
MP’s meter pedestal cannot be used for your main disconnect. Check with your local/state electrical inspector for code requirements.
Does MP offer Rebates for building an energy efficient Home?
Yes we do, for more information see our Triple E program section.
Does MP offer an interruptible electric heating rate?
Yes we do, for more information see our section on
Dual Fuel
Existing Service Questions
If I want to upgrade my service or relocate my service entrance, when should I call MP?
You should contact MP immediately prior to doing any work. Our customer service representatives are here to give you options and figure out the best way to tackle either one of the above jobs. Call locally in Duluth 218-720-2757 or toll free 1-800-228-4966(Minnesota only) and ask for the service rep who covers your area.
Can someone cover my service wires so I can work safely on my home near these wires?
You can arrange for lines to be covered by calling 218-720-2757.
Does MP install and maintain an outside area light for a monthly fee?
Yes, for more information call locally in Duluth 218-722-2625 or toll free 1-800-228-4966 (More info)
