Appalachian Power to upgrade transmission system in Virginia’s Roanoke County

As part of its Glenmary Substation Project in Roanoke County, Va., Appalachian Power plans to upgrade the electric transmission system with a new substation and a quarter-mile of transmission line.

This will be built in the Roanoke County Center for Research and Technology. Also included will be a new office building for Appalachian Power’s equipment and employees. The proposed upgrades have yet to be submitted to county officials, but plans should be submitted to both the Roanoke County Planning Commission and County Board of Supervisors in November.

“This investment provides benefits for both our company and the community,” Larry Jackson, director of external affairs for Appalachian Power, said. “The substation and transmission line will power our new office building. The project is also expected to improve electric reliability for nearby customers while supporting the area’s economic development efforts by making the CRT more marketable to prospective businesses.”

As part of the effort, company representatives will meet with local landowners virtually, to explain the project and provide feedback. Those to be affected by the project will receive packets in the mail with project details and comment cards.

If all goes as planned, construction should begin in spring 2021 and conclude by year’s end.