New Mexico Energizes First Leg of Major Transmission Line
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — It’s been years in the making, and now officials say the first leg of a major renewable energy transmission line in New Mexico has been energized.
The New Mexico Renewable Energy Transmission Authority made the announcement on Oct. 26, saying the Western Spirit project is expected to be in operation by the end of the year.
The transmission line will carry wind-generated power to the grid in New Mexico and other western markets.
The project involved a novel public-private partnership between the transmission authority and Pattern Energy, which is developing a collection of wind farms in the state. New Mexico’s largest electric utility, Public Service Co. of New Mexico, will acquire and operate the transmission line when it’s complete.
State officials said the transmission line will be important as New Mexico aims to eliminate carbon emissions within the utility sector over the next two decades.
RETA Board Chairman Robert Busch said in a statement that the successful development of the transmission line and the state’s energy policies are spurring interest from renewable energy and transmission developers. He added that the line enables new investment of over $1.5 billion in renewable generation and transmission in the state.
Despite New Mexico’s potential for developing more wind and solar resources, a study commissioned by RETA last year identified a need for grid modernization and construction of 900 to 1,300 miles (1,448 to 2,092 kilometers) of new high voltage transmission lines.
Related News
From Archive
- Intrepid Fiber breaks ground on fiber optic network in Superior, Colo.
- Excavator collides with I-95 overpass in Henrico, Va., causing multi-vehicle crash
- Shrewsbury, Mass., expands sewer inspections and cleaning efforts
- Construction worker killed in trench collapse near Prosperity, S.C.
- Two workers rescued after hours trapped in Mich. trench collapse
- WES tunnel boring machine retrieved from Oregon river after seven-month project
- Illinois overhauls Peoples Gas pipeline program, mandates focus on high-risk pipes
- Ameren Illinois to invest $140 million in natural gas pipeline replacement program
- Charlottesville, Va., to begin work on 24-inch water line for Rivanna River crossing
- Mass. governor slams Trump for ‘dangerous delay’ of $50 million in lead pipe replacement funds
Comments