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Ajo - ReforzarTransmission Improvements Project


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In late 2021, the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) and Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) identified the need for additional transmission lines in south Texas.

As part of the larger Rio Grande Valley (RGV) Reliability Improvements Project, AEP Texas and Electric Transmission Texas (ETT) representatives are partnering to engineer and construct the Ajo - Reforzar Transmission Improvements Project to strengthen the electric grid and help withstand weather impacts.

The project involves building approximately 13 miles of double-circuit 345-kilovolt (kV) transmission line from ETT's Ajo Substation south of Sarita to AEP Texas' future Reforzar Substation, located near Falfurrias.

The Ajo - Reforzar Transmission Improvements Project will improve regional reliability and resiliency by:

  • Strengthening the power grid against severe weather events.
  • Reducing the likelihood and duration of wide, community-sustained outages.
  • Providing additional capacity for growth and economic development.

Company representatives will reference public input to make necessary adjustments to the potential route links. The PUC will review the preliminary route links and consider public feedback before identifying a final route for the Ajo - Reforzar Transmission Improvements Project. Company representatives accepted comments on the potential route links through March 24, 2023, with an opportunity to attend an in-person open house in March 2023. Feedback was also received through the website feedback form, email, phone and mail.

Project Updates

A public open house was hosted in March 2023 in which project team members were available to review maps and answer any questions. 

Regulatory Updates

October 2023: Company representatives filed a Certificate of Convenience and Necessity (CCN) with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) following a review of public input on route link development and additional route analysis on October 6, 2023.

May 2024: The PUC approved the project and line route on March 21, 2024. View the PUC final order here.

Project Releases

Timeline

Project Timeline

Structures

Structure

The project includes AEP’s BOLD (Breakthrough in Overhead Line Design) technology, which is capable of operating more efficiently than conventional transmission pole designs.

  • Typical Height: 140 feet*
  • Typical Distance Between Structures: Approximately 1,200 feet*
  • Typical Right-of-Way Width: 150 feet*

*Exact structure type, heights, right-of-way widths and spacing may vary based on location

The current route links run through Brooks, Kenedy and Kleberg counties in Texas. Multiple potential route links were presented to determine the final potential routes prior to CCN filing.

The companies implement a comprehensive siting process that strikes a balance between building infrastructure and respecting land use and the environment. Both companies incorporate and review public input along with the following factors:

  • Existing land use
  • Public lands: state, federal, and military lands
  • Conservation lands and local parks
  • Sensitive species and habitats
  • Soils and topography
  • Historic and cultural resources
  • Existing infrastructure

Similar to other linear infrastructure projects, AEP Texas’ and ETT’s right-of-way (ROW) agents work directly with landowners to obtain the necessary land rights for the project once the PUC determines the final route.

ROW agents work with landowners on the details of easements to reduce impacts on farming practices and personal land use. There also can be compensation for crop loss or damages during construction, which will be handled during one-on-one discussions with involved landowners.

Landowners and the environment will be treated with respect in constructing the new line. Property owners will be treated fairly and made whole for property encumbered by the transmission line project.

We prioritize:

  • Proactive and early engagement with landowners and stakeholders
  • Transparent proceedings throughout the project
  • Maintaining a positive working relationship with all regulatory and environmental agencies

Resources

Virtual Open House Project Fact Sheet Access Roads Field Activities

AEP Texas serves over one million consumers in the deregulated Texas retail electric marketplace.

www.AEPTexas.com

www.ETTexas.com

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