New York Transco has started construction work on the New York Energy Solution transmission line upgrade works in the US.
The first phase of the $530m project to upgrade transmission between Rensselaer County and Dutchess County has received approvals from the state.
The project aims to ease existing electricity bottlenecks and allow for greater use of renewably-generated energy produced upstate, while improving grid resiliency. It will involve the creation of a new 345kV transmission line across 54.5 miles.
New York State Governor Andrew Mark Cuomo said: “The development of a clean, reliable transmission system for New York is key to combating climate change and achieving our nation-leading clean energy goals.
“This project is an integral part of a new energy superhighway that’s being built to move electricity across the state more efficiently, while also creating new jobs and opportunities for New Yorkers that will help to reinvigorate our local and statewide economies.”
The project will create construction jobs and act as a stimulus for the local and regional economies.
Construction works will begin at the Churchtown Switching Station in Claverack, Columbia County. The first phase will see the rebuilding of the switching station and the installation of a temporary bypass electric line.
The second phase of the project covers all other aspects of the project and was recently filed for regulatory review. As part of this, New York Transco will upgrade and replace existing 80-year-old structures with about 230 fewer, more modern structures. The project is expected to be in-service by the end of 2023.
