Construction Begins On Hoskins-Neligh Transmission Line

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Construction of a new transmission line in north central Nebraska is scheduled to begin around Sept. 15, and Nebraska Public Power District wants to spread the word reminding the public to think “safety” first.

“Ensuring safety for our employees and the general public is always our number one priority,” said NPPD Vice President and Chief Operations Officer Tom Kent. “Power line construction activities can mean an increase in large equipment on roadways and possible congestion near construction sites. We’re advising drivers and spectators to be cautious and help us avoid accidents.”

The Hoskins to Neligh line is a 39-mile, 345,000-volt transmission line, running generally east and west, a few miles north of U.S. Highway 275. The new line will run from the District’s Hoskins substation, about five miles northeast of Norfolk, to a new substation approximately four miles northeast of Neligh. In addition, four 115,000-volt transmission line segments will be routed from the new substation near Neligh to existing transmission lines.

Once completed, the new transmission lines will enhance operation of NPPD’s electric transmission system and provide additional opportunities for development of renewable energy projects. Specifically, this project will help meet consumers’ electricity needs in north central Nebraska.

First stage of construction for the new transmission line will be tree cutting along the line route. Soon after that, materials, including large power line structure segments and other equipment, will be delivered to the project.

“With corn still in the fields, visibility at intersections can be adversely impacted,” said Project Manager Jedd Fischer. And once harvest begins, roads could become very busy, he added. “Slow down. Be careful. And look out for farm and utility equipment on the roads,” Fischer said.

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