Independence Area ProjectTransmission Line Upgrades

Appalachian Power representatives plan upgrades to the electric transmission system in Grayson County. The Independence Area Project: Transmission Line Upgrades involves building about 15 miles of 69-kilovolt (kV) transmission line. The upgrades provide a second source of power, increasing reliability for area customers.

September 2025: Crews are currently clearing trees, building access roads and grading at the substation and structure locations. The team plans to begin construction on the transmission line and substation this fall. You may see crews walking or using all-terrain vehicles to access the power line route on your property during construction. Crews use existing roads or lanes whenever possible to access the line route.

For more information, please refer to the Construction FAQ

04/05/25: Right-of-way agents continue to work with landowners. Crews plan to begin tree clearing and construction this fall. The project is expected to be complete in December 2026.

06/03/24: Appalachian Power representatives plan to present to the Town of Independence on June 6th. We previously announced that construction would begin this summer. Due to project schedule changes, construction activities are being postponed until 2026. Right-of-way agents will continue working with landowners.

08/02/23: Company representatives are completing environmental studies and working with impacted landowners. Construction is expected to begin summer 2024.

11/28/22: Right-of-way agents are reaching out to landowners along the line route to discuss property impacts in more detail and acquire easements. The project team plans to obtain needed approvals from the town of Independence in spring 2023. Tree clearing of the right-of-way is expected to begin in the summer of 2024.

05/05/22: Company representatives have determined a proposed power line route after reviewing land use, environmental impact and community input provided during an in-person open house held last fall. Landowners along the proposed line route can expect to hear from Appalachian Power’s right-of-way representative on the project.

01/31/22: Appalachian Power representatives are still working to determine a proposed line route. The project team is reviewing feedback from the open house and conducting field visits.

11/03/2021: Appalachian Power invites community members and landowners in the project area to an in-person open house on Tuesday, November 16th from 5 p.m.- 8 p.m. at Grayson County High School, 110 Blue Devil Drive, Independence, VA 24348