From data centers to growth — electricity demand in Minnesota is rising. That’s led Xcel Energy to request a 13 percent rate increase over the next two years and increase capital spending by $11 billion. Walker Orenstein, reporter at the Minnesota Star Tribune, said the utility has plans to...

While it’s unclear just how snowy this winter will be, NOAA data shows that Minnesota winters have warmed more than five degrees on average since 1970. Warmer winters may cause more freeze-thaw cycles and increased road salt use. State maintenance engineer Jed Falgren spoke to MPR News chief...