News release: ATC Fitchburg-Verona application declared complete by PSC
Application for power line between Fitchburg and Verona deemed complete by PSC
Regulatory review process begins on ATC’s proposal
MADISON, Wis. – American Transmission Co.’s application seeking approval to construct a new electric transmission substation (called the Oak Ridge Substation) in the City of Fitchburg and a new transmission line that would connect to the existing Verona substation was declared complete Monday by the Public Service Commission. This decision marks the beginning of the roughly six-month regulatory review process, which will include engineering and environmental scrutiny and a public hearing.
“Although the PSC staff has requested a few additional pieces of information from ATC, their completeness determination means they have the information and documentation needed to begin a thorough review and evaluation of the project,” explained Sarah Justus, ATC local relations representative. “We hope to have a decision on the project from the PSC next summer.”
The PSC staff analyzes the transmission line application for need and potential impacts, alternative solutions, engineering, economics, safety and also reviews the route options recommended by ATC.
ATC’s application, which was filed in December, proposes to construct the Oak Ridge substation near the intersection of Fish Hatchery Road and Irish Lane in the City of Fitchburg. The proposed 6-mile, 138-kilovolt transmission line would connect the new Oak Ridge substation with the existing Verona substation. The total estimated cost of these improvements is approximately $19 million.
South central Dane County has experienced dramatic growth in recent years and the electric system needs to be reinforced to accommodate the increased electrical usage. This project will strengthen both ATC’s transmission system and Madison Gas & Electric’s local distribution system to ensure safe and reliable electric service.
ATC’s proposal for a 345-kilovolt transmission line between the towns of Christiana and Middleton is still under route review. The company expects to finalize the routes options that will be included in its application this spring and submit the application in June.