Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Central East Energy Connect FAQs
Does the project require a new utility corridor with new property rights?
No, the project is located predominantly on existing utility property. However, we may be interested in discussing access over your property to reach the existing utility corridor to minimize land disturbance during construction and maintenance activities.
What will the project look like?
Visual simulations of the project can be found here. The line segment colors in the top right corner of each correspond to the project map on this website. Please note these are intended to be representative and are based on preliminary designs. As such, they may be subject to update as detailed engineering progresses.
How many companies bid on this project?
A total of six companies submitted 16 proposals to respond to the NYISO solicitation, issued in February 2016, for projects to help relieve transmission congestion.
How was this proposal selected?
After input from the public and other sources, a competitive analysis of 16 proposals, and a third-party engineering analysis, the Technical Review Report completed by Substation Engineering Company (SECo) reflects a significant amount of work in performing engineering and environmental analysis and due diligence in review of the proposals.
At the conclusion of these efforts, NYISO selected LS Power Grid New York, LLC, together with the New York Power Authority, as the developer of the project.
Why was this proposal selected over the others?
NYISO identified the LS Power/NYPA proposal as the more efficient or cost effective proposal. Specifically, the proposed double-circuit transmission line, which was a unique solution submitted only by the LS Power and NYPA team, proved to have a significant increase in transfer capability, increased production cost savings, and excellent operability and expandability.
Who will pay for this project?
The Public Service Commission is conducting a proceeding to identify the cost allocation and cost recovery methods for transmission upgrades approved under the New York Energy Highway initiative. If the project is approved under NYISO’s Congestion Assessment and Resource Integration Study process, the cost would be paid by the beneficiaries identified by NYISO.
What is the project route?
Here’s our project overview map.
Where can I learn more about electric and magnetic fields?
Here’s our project electric and magnetic field handout.
What kind of work will be done in preparation for the project?
Our team will be conducting environmental and engineering field studies to support permitting and preliminary design.
When will construction begin?
The current plan is to begin construction activities in late 2020, while working through permitting processes and detailed engineering until then.
Where will the power flowing on the new lines come from?
New York State’s transmission system is designed to deliver electricity from generation resources to where residents and businesses use it. Generally, this means electricity flows from upstate generators to downstate consumers, although extenuating circumstances like severe storms or unexpected outages can alter these typical flows.
Won’t this only benefit New York City?
No. All of New York State will benefit from a more efficient power transmission system.
- Downstate areas should benefit from lower wholesale electricity prices.
- Upstate generators will benefit from more operations.
- The communities around the project will benefit from the economic development, including construction jobs, resulting from the significant infrastructure project.
What approvals are needed?
The primary approval is Article VII siting approval from the New York Public Service Commission. The Article VII process provides many opportunities for the public to participate. A good summary is provided in the Article VII Process Guide at the Department of Public Service website.
Can the lines be placed underground?
It is not feasible to put long-distance, high-voltage alternative current transmission facilities underground. This approach is not feasible for the project due to its distance and electrical capacity.
What is the Article VII permitting process?
Learn more about the process here.
How can I get involved in the project?
There are a number of ways to stay up to date or participate in the project. Learn more here.
