Increasing electric load growth in the San Juan Basin region of Colorado and New Mexico, both in residential and industrial sectors, has put a strain on the existing electrical system.
Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association (Tri-State), La Plata Electric Association (LPEA), and other regional utilities have been making improvements and additions to the electric system over the years to maintain reliability. While improvements to the local system have helped, there is a tremendous need to import more power into the region to meet the needs of growing communities.
The proposed San Juan Basin Energy Connect Project would involve the construction of a 230-kilovolt transmission line by Tri-State from the Farmington, N.M. area to Ignacio, Colo. This line is needed to provide the power delivery infrastructure for the San Juan Basin that will relieve transmission constraints, serve new loads and offer economic development through renewable energy opportunities.
An open and comprehensive process is used in siting transmission lines that considers electric system planning, economics, the environment, public involvement, regulatory issues, land rights, and engineering input.
In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act process, a detailed environmental impact statement will be prepared. The process helps facilitate public participation, which is an important component in responsibly siting the line.
Project Benefits
The proposed project would:- Improve the power delivery infrastructure to Colorado and New Mexico's San Juan Basin
- Increase the load serving capabilities for residential, small business, and industrial electric consumers
- Provide an alternate source of power for oil and gas development
- Relieve transmission constraints for the region
- Provide a pathway for potential renewable energy development