The North Plains Connector is being developed by Grid United, an independent transmission company. Grid United’s mission is to modernize the United States’ electric grid to create a more resilient and efficient electric system that takes advantage of the nation’s abundant and geographically dispersed natural resources to the benefit of all consumers. The Grid United team is comprised of energy professionals with extensive experience in developing, designing, permitting, and constructing large-scale linear infrastructure across North America.

The North Plains Connector will be approximately 385 miles long, extending from an existing substation in Colstrip, Montana, to an existing substation in Center, North Dakota, and a new substation in Morton County, North Dakota. The route is still being developed and will not be finalized until input has been received from landowners, communities, and local, state and federal government officials.

By utilizing direct current technology, electricity can be sent in either direction, east or west. The North Plains Connector will transport electricity when and where it is needed. It can serve to balance the electricity needs in the Western and Eastern Interconnect grids.

Direct current (DC) is the preferred technology for moving large amounts of power over long distances, offering significant electrical, economic, and environmental advantages. DC transmission can transfer the same amount of power more efficiently and more reliably than alternating current. DC advantages include lower power losses on the line, the ability to control the power flow, and better land use due to reduced right of way footprint.

The North Plains Connector team will be talking directly with stakeholders along the route individually and at community meetings. Additionally, there will be opportunities for public input on anticipated impacts during the state and federal regulatory processes. If you would like to get in touch with the North Plains Connector team, contact us.

In Montana, the North Plains Connector will be seeking a Major Facility Siting Act (MFSA) certificate from the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). In North Dakota, the project will be seeking a Corridor Certificate and Route Permit from the Public Service Commission (PSC).

The Montana MFSA regulates electric transmission lines over 69kV and provides for a comprehensive review of the siting and construction of applicable transmission facilities. Through the MFSA process, the Montana DEQ serves to (1) ensure the protection of the state’s environmental resources, (2) ensure the consideration of socioeconomic impacts, (3) provide citizens with an opportunity to participate in facility siting decisions, and (4) establish a coordinated and efficient method for the processing of all authorizations required for regulated facilities.

The North Dakota PSC oversees the siting of transmission facilities under the North Dakota Siting Act. The purpose of the Siting Act is to ensure that the location, construction, and operation of new transmission facilities will produce minimal adverse effects on the environment and upon the welfare of the citizens of North Dakota.