PJM Interconnection, the regional grid operator responsible for managing electricity transmission across 13 states, has approved several new transmission projects to be jointly developed by Dominion Energy, American Electric Power Company through its affiliate Transource Energy, and FirstEnergy Transmission, LLC. These companies submitted their proposals in September 2024 through PJM’s Regional Transmission Expansion Plan (RTEP) Open Window process, and the PJM Board of Managers officially awarded the projects yesterday.
To carry out these projects, the three companies have formed a joint venture called Valley Link Transmission Company, LLC. This collaboration will combine their knowledge, resources, and expertise to develop efficient and cost-effective transmission solutions. PJM selected these projects after a detailed review, determining that they best address grid reliability needs while also supporting economic growth. The goal is to ensure a steady and reliable electricity supply for all customers.
Ed Baine, President of Utility Operations and Dominion Energy Virginia, said in a statement, “These projects are essential for the economic vitality of our region, the reliability of our grid and the everyday lives of our customers. These are comprehensive solutions needed to reliably serve the growing needs of our customers, and we thank PJM for their thorough review.”
Mark Mroczynski, President, Transmission at FirstEnergy, commented “By leveraging the collective expertise of our three companies, we have the opportunity to build robust transmission facilities that will address documented reliability concerns on the regional power grid. While we’re in the very early stages, we look forward to engaging with communities and stakeholders in the months ahead to discuss the need for these projects and listen to the ideas and concerns of our customers.”
The approved projects include the construction of approximately 260 miles of 765-kilovolt (kV) transmission line with two substations, connecting Putnam County, West Virginia, to Frederick County, Maryland. Another project involves building a 155-mile, 765-kV transmission line and a substation between Campbell County, Virginia, and Fauquier County, Virginia. Additionally, a new substation will be developed in Caroline County, Virginia.
These projects are still in the early stages, and there is no set timeline yet for permitting, regulatory approvals, or construction. Now that PJM has granted approval, the companies will begin detailed planning, including identifying potential transmission routes and conducting environmental studies. They are also committed to working closely with local residents, governments, and other stakeholders throughout the process to gather input, address concerns, and minimize potential impacts on communities.
Bob Bradish, senior vice president, Regulated Infrastructure Investment Planning for AEP, remarked “AEP has decades of experience with projects of the size and scope needed to serve the unprecedented growth in energy demand. This joint venture is a unique solution to addressing the needs of our customers and ensuring long-term reliability and continued economic growth opportunities in the region.”
In addition to the joint projects, PJM has also selected several other transmission projects that will be independently developed by Dominion Energy, American Electric Power, and FirstEnergy Transmission within their respective service areas. These infrastructure developments will help strengthen the electric grid, enhance reliability, and support future energy demands across multiple states.
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