Utility Xcel Energy is a step closer to starting construction work of a 1,000km-plus transmission line that would help connect new Colorado wind farms to the grid.
Colorado’s Public Utilities Commission approved plans for segments 1-5 of the up to $2 billion Pathway transmission line, and gave conditional approval for an 145km extension in the south-east of the state, pending additional information expected early next year.
Xcel Energy will still need to secure approval for the transmission line from individual counties and will continue working with stakeholders on developing the route, it stated.
The Pathway transmission line will enable connection of renewable energy projects to the grid, and improve reliability, flexibility and resilience of the electric system, the utility explained.
Xcel expects construction to start in late 2023, and to start operations of the entire line by 2027.
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