North Dakota's Industrial Commission has given the state Transmission Authority director the OK to send a letter of support for the proposed Big Stone II power plant.

The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission is scheduled to hold hearings this week on whether to grant a certificate for two power lines that will carry electricity from the proposed plant in northeast South Dakota into Minnesota.

North Dakota Transmission Authority director Sandi Tabor says she was asked to write the letter by Montana Dakota Utilities, Inc., which is one of the Big Stone II partners. Tabor says she'll send the same letter she sent to Minnesota regulators a year ago.

Environmental groups oppose Big Stone II, saying wind, solar and other clean energy sources are better options. Supporters say the plant is needed to meet energy needs and control costs.

- Associated Press