Transource and BHE Transmission Collaborate on Major Power Line Project in Wisconsin

Transource and BHE Transmission Forge a New Path in Energy

In an ambitious move to enhance the electrical infrastructure in Wisconsin, Transource Energy, LLC, and BHE Transmission have announced their collaboration to build a nearly 200-mile, 765-kilovolt (kV) transmission line. This significant project was selected by the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) as part of its competitive transmission planning process, aiming to meet the increasing energy demands in the region.

Project Overview

The initiative, named the Bell Center-Columbia-Sugar Creek-IL/WI State Line 765 kV Competitive Transmission Project (BECI), is poised to become a crucial element of the state's energy framework. The total investment in this venture is projected to be around $1.2 billion, indicating a strong commitment to bolstering the reliability and efficiency of power delivery within the MISO footprint.

Doug Cannon, president of AEP Transmission, emphasizes the necessity for this expansion, stating, "Our nation's power needs are growing rapidly. MISO has proactively identified the role 765-kV transmission lines can play in efficiently delivering that power to customers." This project highlights Transource's extensive experience in developing high-capacity transmission lines, further affirming their leadership in the energy sector.

Benefits of the Project

One of the standout features of the project is its potential to unlock new economic opportunities. Ed Rihn, CEO of BHE Transmission, remarked, "While benefiting residential customers, the project will unlock new opportunities for existing and emerging businesses throughout the MISO region." This infrastructure is not only pivotal for meeting current demands but also sets the stage for future growth, and innovation within the energy market.

Innovative Design and Environmental Considerations

Transource will implement its cutting-edge "Guyed-Y" line design for this project. This approach allows for a reduced right-of-way, thereby minimizing the environmental and landowner impacts commonly associated with large-scale infrastructure projects. By innovating in 765-kV transmission, Transource demonstrates its commitment to environmental stewardship and cost-effectiveness for consumers.

The advantages of a 765-kV line are substantial; it can transmit up to 600% more energy compared to a traditional 345-kV line, while requiring less than half the land area. This efficiency not only benefits power delivery but also contributes to minimizing ecological footprints.

Future Steps and Community Engagement

Although a final route for the transmission line has yet to be determined, the project's timeline aims for completion by 2034. Midcontinent Grid Solutions, the joint venture executing the project, is dedicated to maintaining open lines of communication with landowners and communities that may be affected. This includes hosting public meetings and providing opportunities for community engagement throughout the project's progression.

About Transource and BHE

Transource Energy is a partnership predominantly owned by American Electric Power (AEP) and Evergy, with a focus on developing competitive electric transmission projects nationwide. With over a century of combined expertise in energy planning and engineering, the partnership is well-equipped to tackle the challenges of modern energy needs.

BHE Transmission supports a holistic energy strategy, with a diverse portfolio of generating assets and transmission services. Their operations extend across the U.S., Great Britain, and Alberta, Canada, enabling them to serve more than 13 million customers with reliable power every day.

This joint initiative underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing energy solutions, showcasing a strategic step towards meeting not only today's energy demand but also paving the way for the future of sustainable and reliable energy.