Oncor Transmission Line Projects
Oncor's development of a new transmission line project is comprised of several primary components:
Need: The process of building a new transmission line begins when the need for a project is identified. This planning process begins years before a line is routed and constructed. The need for Competitive Renewable Energy Zone (CREZ) Projects has been established by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT).
Route Identification: Once need is identified, a project study area is established and a route analysis is performed. Oncor's route identification often involves multiple alternative routes covering a geographically diverse area. Important routing considerations include the values of the impacted communities, environmental integrity, historical and aesthetic values, and recreational and park areas. Other factors such as cost, engineering constraints, and paralleling of existing corridors are also considered in the routing process.
Certification: In order to construct a new transmission line, Oncor must file an application for approval (certification) with the PUCT. The PUCT by law has the authority to approve and site transmission lines. The application and approval process is a formal process governed by the rules and regulations of the PUCT. Parties impacted by the application have the opportunity to participate in the PUCT proceedings. The PUCT application process typically culminates in a decision from the PUCT concerning the need for the requested transmission line and the placement, or routing, of the line. The certification process for new transmission lines has a jurisdictional deadline for action by the PUCT of 12 months from the application filing date; however, the statute that enables the CREZ and their integration requires certification processing for CREZ designated line to occur on a 180 day deadline from application filing.
Construction: Following the PUCT's approval of a proposed project, Oncor works with landowners crossed by the approved route to obtain right-of-way and begins construction of the approved project.
Community and Landowner Involvement: Public officials, communities, and landowners in the area of a proposed project have a number of opportunities both formally and informally to participate in the routing and certification stages of a proposed project.
Additional Information