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Our partners in planning
One of ATC ’s responsibilities is to evaluate the overall
transmission network, calculate current and projected demand, and
identify areas that need improved or new capacity. We do that by
working with local utility companies to assess demand and with local
governments to determine the growth patterns for cities and towns.
We continually seek the input of local officials, community leaders,
landowners and consumers as we plan how the transmission system
can best deliver to local communities a reliable and affordable
supply of electrical energy.
When a new transmission line is needed, we examine possible routes
for the project. We use existing rights-of-way whenever possible,
and where we can’t, we identify routes with input from the
community. We meet with local officials, businesses and residents
regularly to explain the project, listen to concerns and answer
questions.
As we evaluate and prioritize possible locations for transmission
lines, we rely on five criteria to help guide our decision-making:
- Community input
- Existing and proposed land uses
- Environmental regulations
- Engineering requirements
- The specific electrical needs of the system
Opportunities for input
Clearly, the process of planning, locating and building transmission
lines is not ATC’s alone. We partner with many stakeholders
to ensure that ATC provides communities with access to energy sources
- safely, reliably and affordably. We involve landowners, local
communities, elected officials and utilities. We also work with
regulators to make sure we meet or exceed state and federal regulations
for siting, as well as environmental concerns.
Once a general route for a new transmission line is identified,
ATC submits a plan to the appropriate regulatory agencies for approval.
During this approval process, local residents and governments have
additional opportunities to comment on the plan.
When we’ve received all necessary approvals and the route
has been selected by the PSCW, we contact the landowners to discuss
the project and negotiate the purchase of easement rights. As required
by law, payments for easement rights are based on the appraised
value of the area required for the transmission line. Post-construction
cleanup, restoration of the right-of-way and damages to the property
also are discussed with the landowner.
Transmission lines have been around for decades, and we are confident
that the lines we build and maintain today will provide energy access
for the communities and people they serve now and in the future.
If you have any questions about electric transmission lines, please
contact ATC toll-free at 866.899.3204.
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