Ameren Plans 15-Mile, 138 kV Transmission Line to Enhance Power Reliability and Grid Resilience in Southern Illinois

Ameren Transmission Company of Illinois (ATXI) is seeking public input on preliminary route options for the Lakeland Area Reliability Project, a proposed transmission infrastructure project in Franklin County, Illinois. The company is hosting its second round of in-person public open houses to gather feedback on six potential routes for the planned transmission line.

The project involves the construction of an approximately 15-mile, 138 kV transmission line connecting Ameren Illinois’ existing Benton Northwest Substation with Southern Illinois Power Cooperative’s (SIPC) Franklin Junction Substation, located south of Hanaford. The Benton Northwest Substation will also undergo upgrades as part of the project. ATXI is developing the project in collaboration with SIPC and Hoosier Energy to strengthen electricity reliability in the region.

The six preliminary route options were developed based on feedback received during the first round of public engagement in July. Two options would primarily approach Benton Northwest Substation from the south and west of Benton, while four would route the line east and north of the city.

ATXI’s second public open house is scheduled for September 1 at the Benton Civic Center, with sessions from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The company said no final route has been selected and that additional public feedback will be considered during the route evaluation process.

Following the second round of engagement, the project team will identify preferred routes and present them during a third round of open houses planned for October. Based on feedback and technical evaluation from that phase, ATXI will select a Primary Route and Alternate Route for submission to the Illinois Commerce Commission for approval. The project is expected to improve grid reliability and resilience while supporting long-term economic growth in the region.