Our short video describes how America’s electric grid came to be and the solutions we are driving forward – long-haul transmission lines to make our power more reliable and secure.
North Plains Connector is an approximately 420 mile and up to 525 kilovolt high voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission line connecting the U.S. Eastern and Western electric grids in Montana and North Dakota. North Plains Connector will be open to all sources of electrical power generation. In response to demand, the project will be able to transport power in either direction along the line.
North Plains Connector is entering the permitting phase and initiating regulatory filings, with approvals expected in 2026. Construction is expected to commence in 2028, and the line is expected to be operational in 2032.
The North Plains Connector represents an approximately $3.2 billion investment in Montana and North Dakota and will be a long-term asset for those states. The project will improve grid resiliency and provide economic benefits through local tax revenues, landowner payments, and job creation.
This high-capacity, bidirectional connection will improve reliability and resiliency of the electrical grid across the region and broaden market connections. The project will also provide electricity to consumers when they need more power and backup power during extreme weather events.
The project will provide tens of millions of dollars in additional property tax revenue and community investment. Anticipated construction will require a peak temporary workforce of approximately 800 workers. The project will also stimulate the creation of jobs resulting from local spending on project materials, professional services, and hospitality.
North Plains Connector will be approximately 420 miles long, extending from an existing substation in Colstrip, Montana, to two separate end points in North Dakota – one near the town of Center and the other near St. Anthony.
Building strong and lasting relationships with landowners and communities is how North Plains Connector approaches development. North Plains Connector commits to a collaborative development process, and to conduct easement negotiations in a manner that is respectful of private property rights.
North Plains Connector is entering the permitting phase and is initiating regulatory filings, with approvals expected in 2026. Construction is expected to commence in 2028, and the line is expected to be operational in 2032.
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Learn more about our partnerships with the Montana Community Foundation and North Dakota Community Foundation.