NEW YORK — Construction has begun on the Empire State Line, a $180 million transmission system upgrade project developed by NextEra Energy Transmission New York (NEETNY).
The Empire State Line will include the construction of a new 345 kV transmission line across 20 miles in Erie County and Niagara County, New York. The line will run from the Town of Royalton in Niagara County through the towns of Alden, Newstead, Lancaster, and Elma in Erie County.
The project will also include a new 345 kV Dysinger Switchyard in Niagara County, and a second new switchyard, the East Stolle in Erie County.
The line will be carried by steel monopole structures, each 115 ft high. These structures are 40 ft higher on average and 15 ft narrower than traditional H-frame structures that carry long distance electricity lines.
The project is expected to relieve transmission congestion in Western New York and allow for the integration of more renewable energy into the state's electric grid.
Developed by NEETNY, this project is expected to help New York meet its goals under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, which includes a zero-emissions electricity sector by 2040, 70% renewable energy generation by 2030, and economy-wide carbon neutrality.
The New York State Public Service Commission approved a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need for the project at its January 21 meeting.
The Empire State Line is expected to be complete and in service by June 2022.
Source: T&D World
