Questions you may have about power lines and projects
Providing reliable electric service to our member-owner cooperatives sometimes requires us to upgrade existing transmission lines or build new lines. We also must continuously keep the area around power lines clear. If there is an existing or proposed power line in your area, we understand you may have questions. We’ve tried to answer your frequently asked questions with the information below.
Power poles
- What do transmission poles look like?
- How tall are they?
Vegetation management
- Why does Great River Energy need to remove and trim trees?
- How wide of a clearance is needed?
- Can I plant a tree near a power line?
Environmental resources
- Does Great River Energy consider lakes or streams when building new projects?
- Will birds or other animals be considered?
Safety & EMF
- Are Great River Energy’s power lines strong enough to withstand severe storms?
- What is EMF?
Construction & restoration
- How long does it take to build a power line?
- Will I have to clean up or replant the grass once you are finished?
- Can you bury the lines underground?
Need & benefit of projects
- Why do you need to build new power lines?
- Who will benefit from a power line?
- Who decides where new transmission lines are needed?
Other questions
- What is stray voltage?
- What about TV interference?
Routing
- Once it is determined a new line is needed, who decides the specific route the power line will follow?
- Who gets to decide?
Getting involved in the process
- How can I share my ideas about where the power line should be built?
- Who is involved in looking at potential routes?
The permitting process
- Who grants necessary permits to build a new power line?
- Do you work with the state of Minnesota?
- Will you talk to our city council?
Easements & rights of way
- How much will I be paid for hosting a portion of a power line on my land?
- What is an easement?
- What is a right of way?