Press Release

PUC Approves PPL’s Northeast-Pocono Reliability Project

Published on 1/9/2014

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved PPL Electric Utilities Corp.’s Northeast-Pocono Reliability Project and the company’s application to use eminent domain as part of the project.

The Commission voted 5-0 to authorize the project, which includes siting and construction of transmission lines in portions of Luzerne, Lackawanna, Monroe and Wayne counties. The Commission found that the new facilities are necessary and that PPL took reasonable steps to minimize the environmental effects of the construction and maintenance of the facilities.

The Commission decision is consistent with the Recommended Decision issued by the PUC’s Office of Administrative Law Judge. Other filings and information on the case before the Commission can be found on the Commission’s website.

The approval of the Northeast-Pocono Reliability Project also includes authorization of the following:

• An application seeking approval for the siting and construction of transmission lines;
• Two petitions seeking a Commission finding that the buildings to shelter control equipment at the proposed North Pocono and West Pocono substations are reasonably necessary for the convenience or welfare of the public and therefore exempt from any local zoning ordinance; and
• 22 applications requesting a Commission finding that the service to be furnished by PPL through its proposed exercise of eminent domain for the siting and construction of the project is necessary or proper for the service, accommodation convenience or safety of the public.

PPL provides electricity to about 1.4 million customers in 29 counties in central and eastern Pennsylvania.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases and video of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.pa.gov. Follow the PUC on Twitter – @PA_PUC for all things utility.  “Like” PAPowerSwitch on Facebook for easy access to information on electric shopping.

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Docket No. A-2012-2340872

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