Great River Energy, wholesale electric supplier to McLeod Cooperative Power Association, is planning to rebuild an
existing 12.1-mile 69-kilovolt (kV) transmission line located in McLeod County (see map at link below). This rebuild is
necessary to improve the reliability of the area transmission system, and reduce risks associated with low voltage and
system overloading.
The existing transmission line extends from McLeod Cooperative Power Association’s Bell Substation located in Section 30 in Hassan Valley Township to their Winthrop Substation located in Section 30 in Penn Township. Much of the line is currently located within the east State Highway 15 right-of-way (ROW) and is proposed to be rebuilt on private property on the east side in most areas, in a location that would be 2 to 5 feet outside of the edge of the road ROW. In areas that are developed as smaller residential parcels and in environmentally sensitive areas, the line may be rebuilt in the Highway 15 ROW.
The transmission line generally requires a 70-foot wide easement, 35 feet on each side of the transmission centerline. Wood poles will primarily be used. Steel and/or laminate poles may be used in some locations based on engineering needs. Poles will be placed to not interfere with agricultural land uses to the extent possible. It will be necessary to remove vegetation within the easement area for construction access and the safe operation and maintenance of the line, which will be discussed with landowners during easement negotiations.
Permits and Approvals
- The project will require a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) from McLeod County. Great River Energy will acquire easements for the transmission line and any temporary construction needs outside of a permanent easement. Permits from road authorities, environmental agencies and other utilities will begin once the project has local approval and preliminary design is complete.