Cranberry – Conover line energized
ATC places new transmission line in service
Cranberry-Conover links facilities in northern Wisconsin, UP
EAGLE RIVER, Wis. – A new, 16-mile high-voltage power line is energized and providing much-needed support to the electric system serving the North Woods, according to American Transmission Co.
The new line, which runs between the Cranberry Substation south of Eagle River and the new Lakota Road Substation near Conover, links transmission facilities in northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The connection reduces costly constraints on the existing system, which was subject to overloading and potential service interruptions as demand for electricity increased in the area.
"We appreciate the patience and support we have received from the community while planning for and during construction of the Cranberry-Conover line," says Lee Meyerhofer, local relations representative for ATC. "We announced the project to the local officials and residents in summer 2004, received approval from the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin in late 2006, and began construction in August 2007."
The line may be energized, but the project is not complete. "While we strive to avoid sensitive areas and minimize the impact of construction, we want area residents to know that we are committed to restoring the corridor after construction. We will be working through the summer to do just that."
The transmission project also includes the upgrade of 73 miles of existing lines and substations between Conover and Quinnesec, Mich. Construction to upgrade facilities on the 30-mile segment between Conover and Iron River, Mich. began earlier this month with tree clearing. Anticipated completion date for the upgrade is June 2010.
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