A final line route for the Norfolk-Stanton North Power Project’s new 115 kV transmission line was announced on January 23, 2024. Directly impacted landowners were sent a letter with a map of the final route, and all original property owners were mailed a newsletter. The project is now in phase 3, in which NPPD representatives work with property owners along the route on the project’s next steps.
Right-of-Way (ROW) agents Neal Dreifurst and Andrew Jarecki continue to acquire easements. During landowner meetings, the ROW agents present the easement package, explain the terms and conditions, and present the compensation offer. NPPD utilized an independent land appraiser to determine the appraised value of each tract along the line route.
Construction of the line is anticipated to begin mid-2025 and be completed by late 2025. NPPD is partnering with Norfolk Tree Care, LLC of Norfolk, Nebraska to complete the tree clearing activities. The team plans to begin work in February to avoid the migratory bird nesting season, which typically runs from April 1 to July 15, and the bat pup period, which spans May 15 to July 31. Tree clearing activities will occur only in areas where easements and tree agreements have been obtained. Should these activities extend into April, clearance surveys will be conducted to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Right-of-way agents will stay in touch with landowners during and after construction of the line.
The need for this project is based on the area’s rapid growth and the current transmission system’s high electrical demand. The new 115 kV transmission line will increase the transmission system's capacity to meet increasing demand and further enhance reliability and resiliency in the surrounding area. This project fulfills NPPD’s obligation to serve wholesale customer demand.
Routes for a transmission project are typically developed over the course of several phases and are then narrowed down to a final route.
Questions? Email norfolk-stantonnorth@nppd.com or call 1-888-677-3412.