K-41 Line Project
The K41 Line is a 115kV transmission line located in the Towns of Highgate, Sheldon, Enosburg, Berkshire, Richford, Jay, Tory, Newport, Coventry and Irasburg, Vermont that consists of three line segments.
- Segment One: 6 miles constructed in 2005
- Segment Two: 22.5 miles constructed in 1992
- Segment Three: 22.5 miles constructed in 1961
Vermont Electric Power Company (VELCO) acquired the K-41 line in 2003 from Citizen's Utilities. In the fall of 2010, VELCO received a NERC (North American Electric Reliability Corporation) alert while performing inspections of the K-41 line. After reviewing the line inspection data, it was determined that the K-41 Line was out of compliance with National Electric Safety Code (NESC) clearance requirements, which resulted in the line being removed from service in the spring of 2011. Due to the serious safety and reliability problem, VELCO petitioned the Public Service Board (PSB) to waive the 248 application in order to avoid an emergency.
Under an emergency order, twelve structures were replaced and three new mid-span structures were constructed in the summer of 2011. The emergency work brought the line back in service at a lower than designed load operating capacity (103 MVA). ISO-NE (Independent System Operator--New England) has requested that the K-41 Line operate at a design load operating capacity (150 MVA). To meet this request, the K-41 Line will need additional structure modifications and replacements.
The project will install the following components:
- modification of approximately 20 structures
- replacement of approximately 30 structures
Project Impacts
Minor modifications include raising structures, working with local distribution companies to relocate or lower assets, and/or minimal grading/soil relocating activities. Structural replacements will be in the same general locations as existing structures, are similar in design and appearance, and have minimal visual impact.
VELCO's aesthetic consultant has reviewed the preliminary design plans and performed a visual analysis of the area. The findings indicated that any visual impacted created by the Project will be minimal and that the impacts will not be adverse. Any notable size differences in structures have been reviewed extensively and other options explored. Visual impacts remain minimal due to locations of structure replacements and existing vegetation screens.
Subject to Public Service Board approval, construction will start in the Fall of 2012 and will be complete in the Spring of 2013.
