Vermont Electric Cooperative launches transmission upgrade project
VEC. 9.8.2011 Construction upgrades to 16.9 miles of Vermont Electric Cooperative’s (VEC) transmission system located in the towns of Jay, Westfield and Lowell began this week. The project will replace part of the electric grid that is more than 40 years old and in need of improvement to ensure reliability and safety throughout the northern tier of VEC’s service territory.Further driving the need associated with this upgrade is an increased demand for electricity in this area. Electric load growth in area communities has increased by 10 percent during the past decade. Jay Peak’s demand has grown and with a high level of future economic growth projected, the increased demand for electricity will be dramatic. ‘We’ve recognized the need to make these upgrades for some time and have included them in our long term capital plan,’ said David Hallquist, the CEO of VEC. Because of a partnership with Green Mountain Power (GMP), VEC members will save millions on these improvements. Additionally, we will benefit from electricity generated by GMP’s Kingdom Community Wind project, which is one of the lowest cost, renewable energy sources currently available in Vermont.’ In late July, VEC members voted to approve the transmission upgrades by a significant margin of nearly 5 to 1. GMP will pay roughly 58 percent of the cost of the upgrade as part of a partnership with VEC to use a portion of the system’s capacity to deliver electricity from the KCW renewable energy project in Lowell. The transmission line project is expected to continue through mid-summer next year. Many of the upgrades will take place along the existing transmission corridor. However, there will be some areas where utility poles will need to be moved and tree clearing will be necessary. Limited outages may be needed during the construction process. VEC and GMP officials will ensure that sufficient notice is provided to VEC members who will be impacted during the construction process. Questions or concerns about this transmission project should be directed to VEC’s member service department at 1-800-832-2667.