This A1/B2 Asset Condition Refurbishment project is to address the aging condition of the existing 69kV A1 and B2 transmission lines and the existing right of way (ROW) that travels along approximately 61 miles of various levels of challenging terrain.

This A1/B2 originates at NEP’s existing Vernon 13 switchyard, crosses the Connecticut River into Hinsdale, New Hampshire, crosses the Connecticut River again into Vernon, Vermont, and runs for approximately 2.5 miles into New Hampshire, continues through a number of towns within Northern Massachusetts (including Warwick, Royalston, Winchendon, Gardner, Westminster, Fitchburg, Leominster, and ultimately terminating at the NEP Pratt’s Junction Substation in Sterling, Massachusetts.

The A1/B2 lines were originally constructed in 1909 and the original lattice structures remain along the majority of line. The lines were reconductored in the 1920s and were reinsulated in 2004. Structures and wires need of replacement due to asset condition and aging infrastructure.

The existing steel lattice towers (mainline) and wood structures (taps) will be replaced with new monopole steel davit arm structures and concrete foundations designed to 115kV standards. The existing structures range from 50-60 feet tall and the new structures are expected to range from 93-116 ft in height, which is on average 50 feet taller than the existing. The new structures eliminate the need for guy wires and greatly reduces the overall structure footprint compared to the existing structure. These old structures will be removed once the new lines are placed in service.

The new line will also operate at the current voltage of 69kV. Rebuilding the 69kV lines to 115 kV design specifications now will limit the need for anticipated future upgrades to the A1 and B2 lines within the expected design-life of the new structures. Therefore, rebuilding the A1/B2 lines to 115 kV standards as part of this project minimizes the potential for future upgrade work and will improve system reliability, greatly reduce future environmental impacts, and provide long-term cost savings for customers.

The right-of-way will need to be at least 100 feet wide (50 feet each side of the new monopole structure).

The schedule for construction is planned to begin in 2025 and will take three years to complete. This proposed schedule is dependent upon receiving all necessary federal, state and local permitting approvals.

We will continue to update this website as the project progresses and will continue to send project information via mail to project abutters. Please feel free to let us know if you would like to receive project information by mail if you have not received our mailers. You can also call +1 (844)-500-3536 or email info@newenglanda1b2.com and a team member will reach out to you to further discuss your inquiry or concerns.