When completed, the project will convert the plant's remaining coal-fired unit to biomass gasification technology, allowing it to use 100% biomass in all three boilers. Currently, two of the three operating units at Bay Front use biomass as their primary fuel to generate electricity.

Xcel Energy has said that the project, estimated at $58.1 million, will require additional biomass receiving and handling facilities at the plant, an external gasifier, minor modifications to the plant's remaining coal-fired boiler and an enhanced air quality control system. The total generation output of the plant is not expected to change significantly as a result of the project.

Mike Swenson, president and CEO of Northern States Power Company-Wisconsin, a wholly owned subsidiary of Xcel Energy, said: "We appreciate the PSCW's fair and thorough review of the application and believe that their decision recognizes the benefits of this project to provide environmentally-responsible, cost-effective energy to our customers and communities."

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