On June 18, 2025, MNCEG members and Kraft Mechanical had the unique opportunity to tour Xcel Energy’s Black Dog Generating Plant in Burnsville. This event offered an inside look at how a major regional facility is navigating the shift from coal to cleaner natural gas and preparing for a carbon‑free future.

Safety and Structure:
Attendees were fully briefed on safety protocols—hard hats, eye and ear protection were provided, and long pants and closed-toed shoes were a must. The orderly schedule included presentations and plant tours in rotating groups, followed by a networking lunch.

Engineering Insights:

• Combined-cycle units installed in 2002 and 2018 replaced retired coal boilers, boosting plant efficiency and capacity.

• Technicians explained the use of electrostatic precipitators, capturing ash for construction reuse, illustrating sustainable resource repurposing.

• We toured core plant spaces: control rooms, the turbine hall, and auxiliary systems—showcasing best‑practice operations and maintenance methods.

Environmental and Community Impact:

• As Minnesota’s 8th-largest power producer (approx. 1.8 TWh/year), Black Dog plays a critical electric grid role mpca.commentinput.com+5form.jotform.com+5mnceg.org+5gem.wiki+1wikimapia.org+1.

• The 2019 smokestack demolition marked the final removal of coal-era structures .

• The facility aligns with Xcel Energy’s ambition to slash emissions 80% by 2030 and become carbon-free by 2050 .

This MNCEG tour offered invaluable access to cutting-edge plant operations, engineering leadership, and sustainable energy strategies. Our thanks to Xcel and plant staff for hosting, and to Kraft Mechanical for documenting and enriching the experience.