Before a proposed project is introduced to the public and the potentially affected communities, we have already studied various alternatives as part of our ongoing assessment of the transmission system. We evaluate needs and possible solutions and we study how those needs impact the system in an overall broader planning area. We also work closely with regional organizations responsible for interstate transmission issues to coordinate our infrastructure planning efforts on a regional and national level.
Lifecycle of a major transmission line project
The time a proposed project is introduced to the public to the time construction begins can be up to four years or longer. We use a comprehensive routing and siting process that includes input and information exchange from multiple stakeholders at various phases of the process. Major projects, which are those more than one mile on new right-of-way and over 100 kilovolts, generally follow the timeline and process shown below. Click on a box below to learn more about each activity in the process.
Choosing transmission routes
We follow a careful and deliberate process for identifying routes for new transmission lines. This process provides guidance for identifying and analyzing potential options. Through input received from the public, regulatory agencies and other stakeholders, we consider options that are appropriate for the location and issues associated with a particular project, and consistent with the requirements of applicable state laws.
We first identify a study area (shown above), which is usually a fairly large geographic area from which we look at possible corridors based on environmental and land-use factors. Then we look at possible paths or corridors (shown below) that would be suitable for a transmission line route.
Wisconsin Act 89 (208k pdf) outlines priorities for new transmission lines. In order or priority, we must consider using:
- existing utility corridors (like transmission lines, electric distribution lines or natural gas pipelines),
- highway and railroad corridors,
- recreational trails, and
- new corridors or paths, representing new right-of-way.
Eventually, based on the information we gather from various sources, we are able to identify viable routes for a transmission line (shown below).
Throughout the process, we look for corridors that have potential opportunities for enhancement for multiple uses such as recreation, wildlife, educational and green space. We also begin consulting with the state and federal agencies to identify initial resource avoidance and protection issues and to ensure these are built into the siting process.
Once we've identified two viable routes (shown below), but before we submit our construction application to the Public Service Commission and permit applications to the Department of Natural Resources, we continue consulting with agencies regarding environmental impacts of the proposed projects, develop resource protection goals, identify areas of special interest and conduct studies of the potential impacts of transmission line construction.
For major projects, the final step in this stage of the process involves submitting a construction application to the PSC. Some smaller projects require only local permits and approvals.
This cooperative approach to transmission planning means we can incorporate the maximum amount of benefits and the least amount of impacts from an environmental standpoint. We believe that by working with the landowners, residents and communities we serve, we can find better solutions in the form of land-use and enviromental compatibility while also providing access to the electricity they need.
Public information meetings, open houses and public outreach
We host one or more public information meetings or open houses during the siting process to gather input from the public and to maintain communication with those who may benefit and/or be impacted by a proposed transmission project. Although projects that are part of the state's formal regulatory process will go through a public hearing processs, we feel it is important to provide opportunities for the public to help shape decisions prior to the start of the official regulatory process. Public examination and discussion of transmission plans raises awareness of the need for a specific project, helps eliminate surprises and improves the project by incorporating input from those most familiar with impacted areas.
Regulatory review
Once we have gathered information and identified transmission line route options, we prepare a CPCN application to be submitted to the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin. A CPCN is a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, which authorizes (in the form of a document called an Order) us to construct the project on the route that the PSC deems best. (A different type of authorization, called a Certificate of Authority (CA) is required for many smaller projects.) Our application generally will include two or more route options along with all the documentation required for the PSC to review and issue a decision (Order) on the project. The PSC will notify affected individuals that the review process has started, and will schedule public hearings so that the public may offer formal comments on the project. This review can take up to a year depending on the type of project. Learn more about the PSC Application Review Process (88k pdf).
Environmental review
During the analysis of routes, we consult with the regulatory agencies to identify potential environmental impacts of the proposed projects, develop resource protection goals, identify areas of special interest and conduct studies of the impacts of transmission line construction. Throughout the process, we look at corridors that have potential opportunities for enhancement for multiple uses such as recreation, wildlife, educational and green space. This approach to transmission planning means that we can incorporate the maximum amount of benefits and the least amount of impacts from an environmental standpoint. A full environmental characterization of the two final routes is done prior to submitting a construction application to the Public Service Commission and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. We apply for all the necessary state and federal permits for the project during the same timeframe that a construction application is submitted to the PSC.
Real Estate issues
Once a project has been reviewed and approved by the Public Service Commission , we begin the process of working with landowners to acquire easements for transmission line projects that will be located on new right-of-way. These easements acquisitions are completed before construction begins. More on Easements and Right-of-Way.
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