ATC begins construction on Pleasant Prairie-Zion Energy Center Project
Transmission line will provide multiple benefits to the area
PEWAUKEE, Wis. – American Transmission Co. later this month will begin construction activities on a new 5.8-mile, 345-kilovolt electric transmission line that will strengthen the electric system in southeastern Wisconsin and northeastern Illinois. ATC received approval last May from the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin and Illinois Commerce Commission to build the Pleasant Prairie-Zion Energy Center Transmission Line Project. The project also received approval from the Midwest Independent System Operator as a multi-value project for the economic benefits the line will provide to customers of local utilities.
The Pleasant Prairie-Zion Energy Center line establishes another important high-voltage interstate connection between Wisconsin and Illinois. The new line will relieve congestion on the existing transmission system in the area, allowing output from the most economic power plants in the region to supply electricity more of the time.
“We are pleased to begin construction on this project,” said Mary Carpenter, ATC local relations representative. “We have been working on designing the line, developing construction access plans and obtaining the necessary easements and permits for construction.”
Construction activities beginning this month include vegetation removal and laying construction mats in some areas. In February crews will begin erecting steel poles and stringing wires beginning on the north end of the project in Pleasant Prairie and moving to the south to the Zion Energy Center.
The line will largely follow the existing railroad right-of-way between the two end points. The project, estimated at $31 million, is anticipated to be completed and in service by August 2013.
Note to editors: A map and additional information about the project is available at www.atc-projects.com.