Great River Energy, wholesale electric supplier to Itasca-Mantrap Electric Cooperative (Itasca-Mantrap), proposes to build 4.25 miles of new 115-kilovolt (kV) transmission line in Hubbard County that will power the new “Heartland Lakes” distribution substation to be built by Itasca-Mantrap.
The new Heartland Lakes Substation will be built in Section 4 of Straight River Township. The line and substation will improve reliability and system voltage of the distribution and transmission system in the area.
The transmission line will primarily consist of wood poles 60 to 90 feet above ground, placed 350 to 450 feet apart. Some steel and/or laminate poles may be used based on engineering needs. The transmission line generally requires a 100-foot-wide easement, 50 feet on each side of the transmission centerline. To provide a safe construction, operation and maintenance area, it will be necessary to remove vegetation within the easement area.
Permits and Approvals
- Once the project has been approved by the PUC, landowners will be contacted to begin the easement acquisition process. Landowners will be presented with a copy of the route permit, easement and offer of compensation. The proposed design and information on tree removal, construction access, settlement of damages and restoration practices will also be shared. Required permits from road authorities, environmental agencies and other utilities will begin once the preliminary design is complete.