PSC Approves Paddock-Rockdale Power Line in Rock and Dane Counties

MADISON – In a verbal decision today, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) approved American Transmission Company’s (ATC) request to construct 35 miles of 345-kilovolt electric transmission line along an existing power line corridor in Rock and Dane Counties. The project is the first approved by the Commission to provide access to lower cost sources of electricity outside Wisconsin.


 


“Today’s decision is important because it is the first time we have considered and approved a project that is primarily economic in nature,” said Chairperson Eric Callisto. “The economic advantages associated with this line are very clear and the return on investment will be relatively immediate for Wisconsin ratepayers when it is put into service.  In tandem with generation and transmission projects already approved by the commission, the line will decrease the costs of imported power by offering more options for the state.”


 


“Providing a reasonable electric rate that people can afford has and always will be a major priority of the Commission,” said Commissioner Lauren Azar.  “With the cost of energy at all time highs, I believe it is incumbent upon the Commission to continue to look for ways to lessen the burden on the rate payers of this state.  This project certainly achieves that mission with very minimal impacts on landowners and the environment.”


 


“This project will increase Wisconsin’s electricity import capacity by up to 450 MW,” said Commissioner Mark Meyer. “By allowing external power suppliers additional generation capability into the Wisconsin marketplace, we will promote a higher level of competition resulting in cheaper energy for the people of Wisconsin.”


 


Construction for the $132 million project will begin in the fall of 2008 with an expected completion date in 2010.  In addition to constructing the transmission line, modifications to the Christiana and Paddock Substations and expansion of the Rockdale Substation will be necessary to accommodate the additional facilities.


 


The Commission will issue a written order to finalize today’s decision at a later date. 


 


ATC’s applications can be viewed the PSC Electronic Regulatory Filing System at http://psc.wi.gov/.  Enter case number 137-CE-149.