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Oncor submits transmission line routing information to PUC |
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Written by Brian McCormack
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Friday, 25 September 2009 |
West Texas is home to the highest density of wind turbines in the world. But to export all of those kilowatts, transmission lines are needed. That's where Oncor, a Dallas-based energy company, comes in.
The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) of Texas has approved the construction of new transmission lines which are designated primarily for renewable energy sources. According to Catherine Cuellar, senior communications specialist for Oncor, PUC has prioritized the construction of the new lines, which would help carry an additional 18,000 megawatts of electricity to consumers.
"There are already windmills here that aren't turning due to congestion," Cuellar said. "New transmission lines will alleviate that. Oncor believes that this project is good for the Texas economy and good for the environment."
A plan outlining the company's preferred and alternative routes has been submitted to PUC for consideration before a ruling is made. The agency has 180 days to review the plan, and may approve or reject it based on many factors.
"They can take our preferred route, or they can mix it up with alternative routes where they see fit," said Jim Clements, area manager with Oncor. "Or they could make us go with a totally different route. Ultimately, it's up to the PUC."
Officials say that public input, wildlife studies, and environmental studies were taken into account before drafting the route.
If one of the proposed routes is approved, Cuellar said the next step for the company would be to pursue right-of-way acquisitions, which allows for the company access to easements and land purchase agreements where it is deemed necessary.
Concerned parties, Cuellar said, whose land the lines may traverse, or citizens with other concerns can request intervener status, triggering a legal hearing. Similar to a court proceeding, a judge from the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) will decide who has standing as an intervener. Public comment will be weighed when a final decision is handed down.
Nolan County resident Stephen Morgan said the preferred line may run through part of his property. "It could run through the rear third of our property," Morgan said. "Another proposed line would run just south, parallel to an existing transmission line."
Some landowners have expressed concerns about their property playing host to the lines, but for Morgan, it has its pros and cons.
"I have worries about high transmission lines," said Morgan, who is the father of two. "But I am all for wind power, and we definitely need more transmission capacity."
The PUC will make its final decision regarding the routing of the lines sometime next spring. If all goes well, Cuellar said ground would be broken for the project as early as possible. |
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Last Updated ( Thursday, 01 October 2009 )
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