As the energy grid evolves in the coming years, Xcel Energy and other regional utilities are preparing to meet the changing energy needs of customers, with the goal of increasing the amount of carbon-free and renewable energy while ensuring continued electric reliability for their customers.

To deliver on our strategy, Xcel Energy has filed an application for Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) for a new high-voltage transmission line that will bring renewable energy to customers in Wisconsin, improve long-term reliability, and help manage the energy grid as it evolves.

Project Details and Benefits

The Western Wisconsin Transmission Connection is a proposed new 345-kilovolt transmission line that, if approved by the PSCW, will begin near Blair, connect to existing infrastructure near Eau Claire, and then connect to existing transmission lines to the north and east. Xcel Energy has proposed two route options for the PSCW to review.

“Delivering low-cost renewable energy to customers, while also providing unmatched reliability and keeping bills affordable is how Xcel Energy will lead the clean energy transition,” said Karl Hoesly, president, Xcel Energy-Wisconsin. “Projects like the Western Wisconsin Transmission Connection is a key step in serving our customers with the affordable, reliable, carbon-free electricity they need while also building the grid of the future for the region.”

The Western Wisconsin Transmission Connection, along with other projects being developed in Minnesota and Wisconsin, will enable the delivery of more than 2,500 megawatts of new renewable energy to customers in the two states, enough to power more than 1.3 million homes each year.

When combined with other transmission lines being developed in the region, including the Grid Forward-Central Wisconsin project proposed by ATC and Xcel Energy, the total economic benefit could exceed $900 million. These benefits will be delivered to customers through new access to low-cost renewable energy, improved long-term reliability and system resilience, and improved system performance that will help the grid operate more efficiently. Additionally, the Western Wisconsin Transmission Connection is expected to employ approximately 350 construction workers to help build the project.

Public Review Schedule

The route options were developed following outreach with communities, community groups, and landowners throughout 2023. The PSCW will now review the application and schedule public hearings next year. If approved, project construction is expected to begin in 2026 and be in service by 2028. Additional information about the project can be found at www.WWTConnection.com.