NextGen Highways sees significant benefit in use of existing public routes for dozens of new transmission projects in newly approved MISO plan
Media Contact
Drew Henry
651-210-0788
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MINNEAPOLIS – December 12, 2024 – NextGen Highways executive director Randy Satterfield issued the following statement today after the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) board voted this morning to approve Tranche 2.1 of its Long Range Transmission Plan (LRTP):
“As our nation grapples with the urgent need for a resilient and sustainable energy grid, NextGen Highways is proud to support the MISO LRTP Tranche 2.1 portfolio of projects. This vital initiative represents a significant step toward enhancing our energy infrastructure, and we believe that utilizing highway rights-of-way (ROWs) for building new transmission lines is key to its success.
Many of the 24 projects across nine states will likely require new greenfield routes. Utilizing existing highway ROWs could significantly accelerate permitting and construction while minimizing the impacts on landowners and the environment. Siting and permitting high-voltage transmission lines is always challenging. Utilizing highway ROWs can address these challenges and offer several benefits.
NextGen Highways is committed to working with utilities and transmission developers, state DOTs, federal and state policy makers, and other stakeholders to realize the benefits of co-location transmission lines on highway ROWs.
We call on policymakers, industry leaders, and the public to apply the commonsense siting solution of co-location to the Tranche 2.1 portfolio of projects. Supporting this innovative approach can ensure a more sustainable, resilient and prosperous energy future.
About NextGen Highways
NextGen Highways is a collaborative initiative promoting using highways and other existing rights-of-way as infrastructure corridors where electric and communications infrastructure are strategically and safely co-located in existing highway rights-of-way. NextGen Highways is convened by the Great Plains Institute. Learn more at nextgenhighways.org.