USA, Pennsylvania: Two of the largest US power companies, NextEra Energy and Exelon Corp., are planning a major extra-high voltage transmission line stretching across southwestern and central Pennsylvania.
The proposed 765-kV “superhighway” would run about 350 km (220 mi) from West Virginia to eastern Pennsylvania, crossing 10 counties. Estimated to cost $1.7 B, the project is expected to be operational by 2031.
The plan has been endorsed by PJM Interconnection as part of a broader effort to strengthen the Mid-Atlantic grid, which serves 67 million people. The new line aims to meet rising electricity demand driven by the rapid growth of data centres in the state’s eastern region.
The project would allow power to flow from states such as Ohio and Illinois into Pennsylvania, helping to ease pressure on the grid. Developers say the line could carry around 7 GW of electricity and improve reliability, especially during extreme weather.
However, concerns have been raised by regulators and consumer advocates. Critics warn the project could be unnecessarily large and expensive, with costs ultimately falling on electricity users. Some suggest that local power generation near data centres could reduce the need for such extensive transmission.
The line would require more than 2185 ha (5,400 acres) of land and nearly 1,000 towers, potentially affecting rural landscapes and communities. Environmental groups have also flagged possible impacts on natural habitats.
Despite opposition, the developers say they will work with local communities and remain confident the project will move forward.
Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
