Appalachian Power launches $14 million project to improve electricity access in Scott County, Virginia
Appalachian Power announced on Wednesday that it will begin construction this month on a $14 million project to improve the transmission system for Scott County in southwest Virginia after power showed signs of potential failure in winter 2014.
The Duffield Area Improvements Project involves a significant investment in transmission upgrades for the Scott County in Virginia. Officials said that power showed signs of stress during winter 2014, increasing the risk of an outage. The project will improve transmission lines to ensure that southwest Virginia has access to the power it needs.
The project includes the upgrade of 15 miles of transmission line from 34.5 kV to 69 kV, the construction of a new substation, the retirement and removal of an older substation, and the development of two new miles of 138 kV transmission line.
“Appalachian Power will upgrade the transmission system to help ensure reliable electric service to our customers,” Appalachian Power External Affairs Manager Mary Begley said. “Upgrading the equipment to the most up-to-date standards will improve our restoration times during outages and provide the area with a transmission system that can enhance economic development.”
All construction for the project will take place in Scott County, near the Jefferson National Forest. The first phase of construction will take place within existing right-of-way, while the second phase will take place on easements and property owned by Appalachian Power.
Appalachian Power said that minimizing the impact on residents and the environment is a top priority, and it plans to work directly with residents to answer questions and address concerns.
Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2017.
