PUC Awarded $4.6 Million DOE Grant To Improve Siting Process For High-Voltage Electric Transmission Lines

On September 4, the Public Utility Commission announced it has received up to a $4.6 million grant from the US Department of Energy’s Grid Deployment Office to enhance the process for reviewing proposed high-voltage transmission line projects in Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania’s project is among 20 selected from across 16 states as part of the Transmission Siting and Economic Development grant program. 

This funding comes at a critical time, as discussions continue about the role of transmission projects in modernizing and evolving energy infrastructure for the Commonwealth and the nation.

“We are extremely pleased that the Commission, and ultimately Pennsylvanians, will benefit from these federal dollars,” said PUC Chairman Stephen M. DeFrank. “Siting transmission facilities and managing associated costs are key components of the evolving electricity market. These federal funds will significantly support our jurisdiction, including activities such as customer outreach, staff training, and engagement in federal proceedings.”

With this funding, the PUC will enhance its review process for proposed high-voltage transmission projects by:

-- Strengthening communication with communities, residents, businesses, and utilities impacted by these projects.

-- Increasing transparency in the PUC’s review process.

-- Improving access to PUC forms and documents.

-- Expanding resources for conducting public input hearings and site visits.

-- Providing additional training for PUC staff involved in project reviews and decision-making.

-- Adding resources and expertise to effectively represent Pennsylvania’s interests before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and other relevant agencies.

The Commission emphasized that these grant funds are intended to enhance the regulatory process and foster public discussion about high-voltage transmission projects. 

Each siting application will be evaluated based on the facts and evidence to determine whether individual projects serve the public interest.

Click Here for the announcement.

Visit the Public Utility Commission website for more information on regulated public utilities in Pennsylvania.

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[Posted: September 4, 2024]  PA Environment Digest