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Lakin - RacineTransmission Line Rebuild Project


Appalachian Power representatives and the utility’s affiliate, AEP West Virginia Transmission Co., Inc., plan upgrades to the electric transmission system serving customers in northern West Virginia.

The Lakin-Racine Transmission Line Rebuild Project involves upgrading approximately 13 miles of transmission line in or near the existing right-of-way, and upgrading a substation in the area. The project resulted from PJM Interconnection’s 2022 Winter Analysis. PJM Interconnection serves as the regional transmission organization that monitors the electric grid in 13 states, including West Virginia.

Company representatives expect construction to begin in fall 2021 and conclude by fall 2022.

Project Updates

June 2023: Crews are currently working on restoration activities and plan to complete transmission line construction later this year. All construction is expected to conclude by November.

March 3, 2022: Crews are currently clearing trees to prepare for construction. Crews plan to begin access road and transmission line construction next month and conclude by the end of the year. Company representatives plan to remove the former Lakin-Racine transmission line and perform restoration activities throughout 2023.

June 10, 2021: Right-of-way agents are actively working with landowners to acquire all easements for the project. Construction is expected to begin this fall and conclude by fall 2022.

August 5, 2020: A proposed line route was selected to rebuild the 13 miles transmission line from the Lakin Substation to the Racine Substation. Directly involved landowners will receive additional information in the mail sharing next steps.

April 8, 2020: The project team invites landowners to visit the project's virtual open house and provide feedback to help solidify a final line route.

Project Releases

News Release - April 8, 2020 (PDF)

Map

Project Map (PDF)

Timeline

Project Timeline

Structures

Structure

Crews plan to rebuild the power line primarily using steel, H-frame and single poles.

At Appalachian Power, we are committed to meeting the energy needs of customers while protecting the environment and natural beauty of the region.

Existing Structure Height: Approximately 50 feet*
Proposed Structure Height: Approximately 75 feet*
Right-of-Way Width**: Approximately 100 feet*

* Exact structure, height and right-of-way may vary

Resources

Project Fact Sheet Access Roads Field Activities

Appalachian Power serves approximately 1 million customers in West Virginia, Virginia and Tennessee.

www.AppalachianPower.com

Cortney Mustard

Project Outreach Specialist
833-313-3743
camustard@aep.com

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