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UCMP Springfield Lines 1544 and 1755
Why Are We Doing This Project?
As part of our ongoing commitment to deliver reliable energy and superior service to our customers, we are proposing to replace existing 115-kilovolt (kV) underground transmission lines in the Greater Springfield area.
The existing 1544 and 1755 lines were installed in 1972, are past their useful life expectancy and need to be replaced. We routinely evaluate the condition of our infrastructure to provide reliable electric service to the community.
The proposed transmission system improvements proactively increase system reliability by:
- Proactively addressing any issues obtaining supplies needed for system repairs and upgrades
- Upgrading to a system technology with longer life expectancy
- Reducing occurrence of unplanned outages which may require the need for emergency replacement / repair
- Eliminating the risk of oil leaks from existing cables
- Potentially increasing line capacity for future need of transmission
The proposed project is part of a larger program we are conducting throughout our service territory in Connecticut and Massachusetts called the Underground Cable Modernization Program (UCMP). This program is designed to modernize and increase the capacity of the existing underground transmission cable systems by replacing existing high pressure fluid-filled (HPFF) cable with cross-linked polyethylene cable (XLPE).
Where Is This Work Being Done?
We are replacing 1.1 miles of 115-kV underground electric transmission lines connecting the existing Clinton substation in Springfield and West Springfield substations.
The proposed replacement lines will follow the same or similar route whenever possible under the roadway.
Once all local and state approvals have been received, construction will include excavation for the cable system trench and vault/cable installation. Upon completion of construction, we will coordinate with affected municipalities on restoration of affected areas.
Equipment upgrades will be required at the West Springfield and Clinton substations to accommodate the connection of the new cable. This work will occur within the existing footprint of the substations.
When Is The Work Being Done?
- Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities filing: Fourth quarter 2024
- Start of construction: Third quarter 2025
- Projected construction completion: Fourth quarter 2026
*Subject to change, pending necessary approvals
About this project
- Route length: 1.1 miles
- Line voltage: 115 kilovolts (kV)
- Siting review by: Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) or Energy Facilities Siting Board (EFSB)
Siting Review
This project requires a review from the Massachusetts DPU and or the EFSB which we intend to undertake in the fourth quarter of 2024. Environmental permits will also be required from local, state, and federal agencies.
Community Outreach
We are committed to engaging city officials, residents, business, community groups and other interested stakeholders about the project through meaningful engagement. Our team strives to incorporate local feedback as feasible. Project team members will remain engaged with the community throughout the project to provide updates on the schedule and address questions and concerns.
Below is a summary of past outreach activities.
- Open house event at West Springfield Boys and Girls Club (October 12, 2023)
- Pop up event at Tower Square Food Court (April 11, 2024)
- Pop up event at IronMan Expo at MassMutual Center (June 7-8, 2024)
- Open house event at West Springfield Boys and Girls Club (November 23, 2024)
Have Questions?
Keeping the lines of communication open is an important part of our work in your community.
For more information about this project, please call the project information hotline at 1-833-836-0302 or email ProjectInfoMA@eversource.com.