Republic Transmission to lead development of 345 kV transmission line in Indiana
Indiana – The Midcontinent Independent System Operator, Inc. (MISO) revealed on Thursday that it has selected Republic Transmission, LLC to spearhead the development of a new double-circuit 345 kV transmission line project in Indiana.
This transmission line will eventually link NIPSCO’s Hiple substation in LaGrange County, Indiana, to the new Duck Lake substation in Michigan. According to the companies, this project marks the first competitive bid from MISO’s Long Range Transmission Planning (LRTP) Tranche 1 portfolio approved last year.
Jeremiah Doner, MISO’s Director of Cost Allocation and Competitive Transmission, praised Republic Transmission’s proposal for its efficient cost and design. He highlighted the remarkable 40-year cost containment commitment and the well-thought-out project implementation strategy included in the proposal.
The proposal from Republic Transmission encompasses a new 23-mile 345 kV line stretching from Hiple to the Indiana/Michigan State Border. At this point, a new Michigan transmission line will connect it to the Duck Lake substation. The Michigan Electric Transmission Company (METC) will be responsible for constructing the Michigan transmission line. The estimated cost for the Republic Transmission project stands at $77 million, as the company reported.
Doner noted the rigorous competitive selection process that led to Republic Transmission’s selection as the developer. This process saw seven proposals from three different developers all aiming to construct, own, operate, and maintain the project. He expressed his anticipation for working closely with the developer, regulators, and other stakeholders to ensure the project’s successful and timely completion.
