Press Release

PUC Approves Settlement Resolving Remaining Issues from 2007 TrAILCo Transmission Line Proposal for Washington, Greene Counties

Published on 11/19/2010

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a settlement that grew out of a collaborative process surrounding a transmission line proposed in 2007 for Washington and Greene counties by the Trans-Allegheny Interstate Line Co. (TrAILCo).

The Commission voted 5-0 to approve the settlement, which eliminates the need to build the proposed “Prexy Facilities,” including the 37 miles of 500 kV transmission lines through Washington and Greene counties, the Prexy substation and 15 miles of new 138 kV transmission lines. PUC Chairman James H. Cawley issued a statement. Commission Vice Chairman Tyrone J. Christy issued a statement. Commissioner John F. Coleman Jr. issued a statement.

The settlement maximized the use of existing utility infrastructure with little impact on property owners near the site. The settlement, which includes a series of interconnections of 138 kV transmission lines, is projected to resolve reliability concerns for Washington County for the next 10 years. The cost of the original Prexy Facilities was estimated to be $213 million.  Under the settlement, this cost of these facilities was reduced to $11.6million.

On Nov. 13, 2008, the PUC approved an agreement that allowed a 1.2-mile portion of the 37.2-mile transmission line proposed by TrAILCo and in separate action voted to stay the remainder of the proceeding for further consideration through a collaborative process that led to today’s action.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket no. A-110172

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