Arkansas Challenges $22 Billion Midwest Power Line Project

States push back on transmission expansion

Arkansas is one of five states challenging a $22 billion project to build high-voltage electric transmission lines across the Upper Midwest.

Public Service Commissions from Arkansas, North Dakota, Montana, Louisiana, and Mississippi filed a complaint with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). They want regulators to halt development of the proposed network, which would expand existing lines from Kentucky to Minnesota and the Dakotas.

Supporters argue project lowers bills

Proponents say the controversial project could be in place by 2034. They argue it would strengthen connections between windy Plains states and population centers in the South and East. Supporters believe the expansion could keep consumer power bills in check. Without it, they warn, customers may face higher electricity prices.

States say costs unfairly distributed

Opponents counter that the main grid operator in the Upper Midwest exaggerated the financial and environmental benefits. The five states also contend that construction costs were unfairly assigned to states that do not need the lines.

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Source & Credit

Story originally reported by Minnesota Reformer. Edited and expanded for clarity  by Oklahoma Energy Today.