CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Appalachian Power Company announced Monday it hopes to do $80 million of upgrades to its electrical system in McDowell County.
The company plans public meetings along with making a request to the state Public Service Commission for project approval.
Appalachian Power said it hopes to complete work by 2017.
The proposed improvements include: retirement and removal of 35 miles of existing 88-kilovolt (kV) transmission line; retirement and removal of two existing substations; construction of three new substations; associated improvements at other existing substations; and rebuilding of approximately 17 miles of an existing (34.5 kV to 88kV) transmission line to 138 kV. Existing wood H-frame tower structures will be replaced with steel H-frame structures that are taller and sturdier.
The company said it already has easements for most of the project but some will need updating.
An informational workshop is scheduled for Feb. 27 at Southside Middle School in War beginning at 5 p.m.