Utilities team up to build transmission lines
Xcel Energy and Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association filed applications with the Colorado Public Utilities Commission. The transmission lines would stretch from the San Luis Valley in south-central Colorado to Pueblo.
Xcel Energy gets power from a SunEdison solar plant in the San Luis Valley.
The utilities must get approval from local governments for the transmission lines. The project is expected to cost about $180 million and be in service in 2013.
"We are combining our resources and assets to put forward a strong plan that addresses load growth and supports future renewable energy development," said Kent Larson, Xcel Energy's vice president for transmission and operating services.
Xcel Energy spokesman Tom Henley said the application is the first joint project proposed for renewable energy zones identified by the Legislature.
Minneapolis-based Xcel Energy is Colorado's largest provider of electricity. Westminster-based Tri-State supplies wholesale power to 18 electric cooperatives in Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming and Nebraska.
Related News
'Net Zero' Emissions Targets Not Possible Without Multiple New Nuclear Power Stations, Say Industry Leaders
LONDON - Leading nuclear industry figures will today call for a major programme of new power stations to hit ambitious emissions reduction targets.
The 19th Nuclear Industry Association annual conference in London will highlight the need for a proven, dependable source of low carbon electricity generation alongside growth in weather-dependent solar and wind power.
Without this, they argue, the country risks embedding a major reliance on carbon-emitting gas fired power stations for generations to come.
Annual public opinion polling released today to coincide with the conference revealed 75% of the population want the UK Government to take more action to reduce CO2 emissions.
The…
