McDowell Area 138 kV Transmission Improvements Project
Appalachian Power and its affiliate, AEP West Virginia Transmission Company, propose a project that will boost the electric transmission grid reliability in the region. The McDowell Area Improvements Project will also provide southern West Virginia with an infrastructure capable of handling future economic growth. The project includes:
- Removal of approximately 35 miles of existing 88 kilovolt (kV) transmission line
- Rebuilding and upgrading approximately 17 miles of an existing transmission line to 138 kV
- Retirement of two substations
- Construction of three new substations
- Improvements and upgrades at various existing substations
The Public Service Commission of West Virginia granted a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity in September 2014. Estimated budget for the project is $80 million with an expected in-service date of spring 2018.
Project Updates
The McDowell Area 138 kV Transmission Improvements Project is about 60% complete. The portion of the line spanning from Jim Branch to Berwind Substation is complete and in-service. The project in its entirety is expected to be complete by spring 2018.
News Release
Maps
- Overview Map (PDF)
Structures
- Typical Proposed Structure (PDF)
- Structure Comparison (PDF)
Timeline
Public Service Commission Applications
- Application for CPCN (PDF)
- CPCN Approval (PDF)
* The accompanying map depicts the project area. It should be noted that the map contained on this site is for information purposes only. AEP reserves the right to alter, change, or amend the map at any time without notice and AEP provides no warranty about the accuracy of content. Keep this in mind when reviewing this map. However, AEP will make all attempts to keep this map as accurate as possible. If you have any questions about the accuracy of the current map please Contact Us.
