Franklin County Line Upgrade
About
A word on community outreach
This webpage is one way we work to keep neighbors, local officials and other stakeholders appropriately informed about this project. Timely sharing of information with Vermonters on our projects is a fundamental requirement of all VELCO projects. Please visit the Project Updates section to review the project updates, project correspondence, and public meeting information. We also welcome your feedback and ideas as to how we can improve how we share information.
Informational Resources:
Sign up here to receive email updates about the project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Project map - draft version
What is the Franklin County Line Upgrade Project?
The Franklin County Line Upgrade is a VELCO proposed project to rebuild the power line from VELCO's Georgia Substation to our Highgate Substation. It includes replacing deteriorating two-pole wood structures with more resilient single-pole steel structures, although some two-pole structures will be required in certain locations. As part of this project, VELCO will also replace the current wire, known in our industry as conductor. The rebuilt line will be in the same general location as today but slightly shifted, however, 10-15 feet toward the eastern side of the corridor with a 30-feet increase in height. Once the new structures are installed and the conductor is energized, the old structures will be removed.
Why are we doing this project?
As the planner, builder, operator and manager of Vermont’s high-voltage electric transmission system, it is VELCO’s responsibility to ensure grid safety, reliability, and efficiency. A routine inspection of this Highgate-to-Georgia line revealed that 146 of its 212 wooden transmission structures are in need of replacement in order to maintain safe and reliable grid operations. This isn’t surprising as 60 percent of the structures in question have been in place since 1958. Should we earn the necessary approvals to successfully complete this project, Vermont’s transmission grid will be more resilient, efficient and accommodating of additional in-state renewable energy.
Contact us
We are available to answer any questions you may have about the Franklin County Line Upgrade.
Allyson Brown, Right-of-Way Manager, abrown@velco.com or 802-770-6375
Shana Louiselle, Communications Manager & Public Outreach Coordinator, slouiselle@velco.com or 802-353-9346
Rob Naramore, ROW specialist, rnaramore@velco.com or 802-673-9325
