Public Input Launches for New High-Voltage Power Line in Wisconsin

Public Input Initiated for Wisconsin's New 765-kV Power Line

Midcontinent Grid Solutions (MGS) has officially commenced the public input phase concerning a significant infrastructure project—a new 765-kV power line aimed at enhancing Wisconsin's electric grid. This initiative, known as the BECI (Bell Center – Columbia – Illinois/Wisconsin State Line) Project, is designed to not only strengthen energy reliability but also to facilitate the transmission of cost-effective electricity across the Upper Midwest.

Project Overview

The proposed power line will stretch approximately 190 miles, establishing connections between electricity facilities in Crawford County and those in Walworth County, ultimately linking to the state line. However, the specific connection points within Illinois are still being finalized since they are under consideration by another utility provider.

This project is part of a comprehensive regional strategy endorsed by the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO). MISO enacted a competitive bidding process in which MGS was awarded the task of constructing and maintaining this critical transmission line in 2026.

As part of the initial outreach, MGS has announced a series of public open houses scheduled throughout August. During these gatherings, community members can learn more about the project and provide valuable input regarding potential routing options. MGS will offer detailed maps for review and request comments from the public. Interested individuals can access information on the open houses, including a virtual option and online comment forms, through mgs-projects.com/BECI. The deadline for public feedback is set for September 7.

Importance of the Project

According to Laura Rauch, Executive Director of Transmission Planning at MISO, the Long-Range Transmission Planning process has been integral in designing a reliable power grid, especially in light of the increasing demand for electricity and the growing frequency of extreme weather events. The BECI project was included in the Tranche 2.1 portfolio, which received approval from MISO's Board of Directors in December 2024. This portfolio is anticipated to deliver economic benefits that could range from 1.8 to 3.5 times its overall costs.

The advantages of a high-voltage 765-kV line are significant. These lines can transmit more energy with fewer structures, substantially minimizing the impact on landowners while maintaining a stable and reliable power supply. The project team will diligently collaborate with landowners and other stakeholders to explore various routing options before formal route proposals are submitted for approval.

As Kenneth W. Cooper, IBEW International President, stated, "To meet the energy demands of the 21st century, modern infrastructure is essential." The BECI project stands as a vital element in fortifying Wisconsin’s economy and ensuring that energy needs are met efficiently in the future.

Kurt Bauer, President and CEO of Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, emphasizes the critical nature of reliable and affordable energy for the economic prosperity of the state: "The BECI project represents a crucial investment in Wisconsin's economic future, bolstering the energy infrastructure essential for job retention and growth."

In the wake of public consultations, MGS will compile the feedback received and propose preliminary routes for further discussion in subsequent public open houses scheduled for later this fall. Additionally, MGS aims to submit an application for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin early in 2027.

MGS combines the knowledge of Transource Energy—an alliance between American Electric Power and Evergy—with BHE Transmission. Both partners bring over a century of experience in power transmission along with an extensive network of 84,000 miles of operational lines across the nation. This background underpins MGS’s commitment to providing safe and dependable energy solutions.

Thus, the introduction of the BECI power line underscores a significant step toward a robust, modern energy grid, fulfilling the challenges of today while paving the way for a sustainable energy future.