Bethlen-Ethel Springs 138-kV Transmission Line Project Update
At FirstEnergy, it is our responsibility to deliver the power our customers depend on in their daily lives. Keystone Appalachian Transmission Company (“KATCo”), a FirstEnergy company, has identified a need for a new 138-kilovolt (kV) transmission line in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, to enhance service reliability for distribution customers.
KATCo evaluated the existing transmission system in the area and identified the need to construct a new 138-kV transmission line to connect the existing Ethel Springs Substation to the existing Bethlen Substation. The project was presented to PJM, the regional transmission organization that coordinates the movement electricity in Pennsylvania and 12 other states.
The line will extend approximately 8 to 10 miles and will be supported primarily by steel pole structures. The project is needed to reinforce the transmission and distribution systems and will enhance service reliability for approximately 11,200 customers in Westmoreland County.
KATCo held a public open house on February 7, 2024, to solicit feedback from interested parties about the new line through portions of Derry Township, Ligonier Township and Ligonier Borough in Westmoreland County.
Feedback received was evaluated by KATCo representatives and a proposed route selected.
Project Documents & Links:
Next Steps:
Affected landowners will be contacted by Real Estate to discuss the project and seek any permanent or temporary rights that are necessary.
KATCo will be filing an application with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission for the authorization to construct the 138-kV transmission line.
Questions:
If you have comments or questions please feel free to view the information available on the website and reach out to leave a message for the project team at 1-888-311-4737 or by email at transmissionprojects@firstenergycorp.com. Written comments or questions about the project will also be accepted and can be addressed to: Attention Bethlen-Ethel Springs 138-kV Project Team, 76 S. Main Street, Akron, Ohio 44308.