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Updates and Reports

PJM data indicates record power use in the region this summer

Electric customers in the region used a record amount of electricity this summer, according to preliminary data from the PJM Interconnection, the independent operator of the regional electric grid.

Electricity use in June, July and August was 203,681,531 megawatt-hours (203,681,531,000 kilowatt-hours), PJM said. The previous record for summer use of electricity in PJM was 203,415,406 megawatt-hours in 2005.

The amount of regional electricity used in summer 2010 was about 12 percent more than the summer of 2009, which was cooler than normal, according to PJM.

During the summer months of 2010 in the PJM region, the need for air conditioning was 37 percent higher than normal and 47 percent higher than last summer, according to data from the National Weather Service.

The Susquehanna-Roseland power line project will prevent overloads on existing power lines in the regional grid. It will help ensure that all electric customers have the power they need – especially during periods of peak demand such as hot summer days.


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PSE&G and PPL submit formal comments to the National Park Service (NPS) about Susquehanna-Roseland transmission line route

The chosen route for the Susquehanna-Roseland power line project – already approved by state regulators in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and already following an existing power line right of way – is the most reasonable path for this critical improvement to the region’s electrical infrastructure, according to formal comments submitted to the National Park Service by Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSE&G) and PPL Electric Utilities.

The utilities reviewed the routes that would be necessary to connect to alternative routes proposed by the Park Service. Routes other than the one chosen by the utilities would have more impact on people and the environment, and some have “critical flaws” that would make them infeasible to build, according to the utility comments. In addition, choosing a route other than the one already approved by both states would increase costs and cause additional delays that would leave millions of people throughout the region vulnerable to problems with their electricity service.

The two utilities filed their joint comments as part of the Park Service’s Environmental Impact Statement process for the Susquehanna-Roseland line. A permit is needed from the Park Service for the line to cross the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River.

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PSE&G announces delay in Susquehanna-Roseland transmission line

PSE&G disclosed that it has notified the PJM Interconnection that the in-service date for the eastern portion of the Susquehanna-Roseland transmission line has been delayed by 2 years to 2014 with the in-service date for the western portion of the line delayed until 2015. The delays are due to on-going environmental permit reviews. PJM determined that the S-R line is necessary to ensure the reliability of the grid in Northern New Jersey starting in 2012.

“PSE&G will work with PJM to ensure the reliability of the system to tie us over to when the S-R line can be completed,” said PSE&G President and COO Ralph LaRossa. He added, “PJM is ultimately responsible for making decisions regarding the identification of transmission planning solutions.”

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National Park Service releases alternative routes for Susquehanna-Roseland power line

Today, PSE&G received the National Park Service’s (NPS) alternate routes for the Susquehanna-Roseland power line. We will evaluate these alternatives and participate in the process established by the NPS.

The route that PSE&G has proposed has gone through extensive review and we believe that it is the best one possible to limit negative impact on communities and the environment.

To read the alternative routes report, visit the National Park Service’s Web site.

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PSE&G submits report to BPU pursuant to April 21 Susquehanna-Roseland transmission line order 

On July 20, PSE&G submitted a report to the NJ Board of Public Utilities (BPU) pursuant to the Board's April 21 order approving the Susquehanna-Roseland transmission line. This report documents PSE&G's efforts in working with the parties to the Proceeding to consider additional relocations and realignments that are "practical and in the public interest."

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PSE&G files application with New Jersey Watershed Property Review Board to obtain approval for temporary access roads for Susquehanna-Roseland power line

PSE&G files application with New Jersey Watershed Property Review Board to obtain approval for temporary access roads for Susquehanna-Roseland power line

PSE&G has filed an application with the New Jersey Watershed Property Review Board to obtain approval to use property located at Split Rock Reservoir in Rockaway Township for two (2) temporary access roads required for the construction of the Susquehanna-Roseland Power Line.

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PSE&G files application for freshwater wetlands permit 

PSE&G files application for freshwater wetlands permit for western portion of Susquehanna-Roseland transmission line.

On June 30, PSE&G filed an application for a freshwater wetlands individual permit for the western portion of the Susquehanna to Roseland transmission line. The Hopatcong-West portion of the line runs from the Hopatcong Switching Station to the Pennsylvania border.

On May 14, 2010, PSE&G amended the company’s original permit application, which covered the entire project, to cover only the Hopatcong-East portion of the project from and including the Hopatcong Switching Station east to its terminus at the Roseland Switching Station.

At that time, PSE&G indicated that the company would file a separate application at a later date for the Hopatcong-West section to reactivate agency review of this portion of the project.

The entire Susquehanna-Roseland transmission line is needed to ensure the continued reliability of the electric grid, as well as to be in accordance with federally mandated reliability standards.

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PSE&G amends Susquehanna-Roseland application for DEP permits 

On May 14, 2010, PSE&G amended its current applications for Freshwater Wetlands and Flood Hazard Area permits for the Susquehanna-Roseland electric reliability project.

In the filing with the NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJ DEP), the company is asking for permit approval in connection with the construction of the eastern portion of the line between the Hopatcong and Roseland switching stations.

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PSE&G receives BPU written order in support of Susquehanna-Roseland power line 

On April 21, PSE&G received the written order from the NJ Board of Public Utilities (BPU) approving the Susquehanna-Roseland transmission line. Subject to obtaining certain other approvals, the company plans to begin construction of the line this summer between Hopatcong Borough and Roseland Township.

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PSE&G receives BPU approval for Susquehanna-Roseland power line application 

On February 11, PSE&G received approval from the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities to construc the Susquehanna-Roseland transmission line, which is required to prevent overloads and maintain the reliability of the power grid.

In addition to BPU approval, PSE&G needs to obtain permits from the NJ Department of Environmental Protection and the National Park Service for the portion of te line that goes through the Delaware Water Gap.

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PSE&G update to the project site plans 

After completing detailed engineering and receiving input from property owners, PSE&G updated the Project site plans to show the latest tower and access road locations. These refinements were completed in order to minimize impacts to nearby residents and the environment. To view the updated site plans, click here.

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BPU Evidentiary Hearings on Susquehanna-Roseland project conclude; decision expected Jan. 15 

The BPU evidentiary hearings on the Susquehanna-Roseland power line project concluded on November 23, 2009. The parties are to file briefs on December 28 with reply briefs due on January 6, 2009. The BPU is expected to issue a decision on the need for the line at a special Board meeting on January 15, 2009.

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Rutgers Economic Impact Study of Susquehanna-Roseland line now available 

The Rutgers report analyzes the economic impacts on New Jersey of the construction of PSE&G’s Susquehanna-Roseland transmission line. In particular, it examines the economic impacts of the construction of two switching stations and of the transmission line and towers required to accommodate the increased transmission capacity.

The estimated economic impacts include both direct impacts and indirect impacts.

Direct impacts are those directly associated with the project expenditures. Indirect impacts are those generated by the multiplier effects of the initial expenditures such as employment, Gross Domestic Product, compensation and state and local revenue taxes.

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NJDEP Individual Freshwater Wetlands Permit Application 

In accordance with the Freshwater Wetlands Protection Act Rules (N.J.A.C. 7:7A), PSE&G requested an application for an Individual Freshwater Wetlands Permit, Open Water Fill Permit, Transition Area Wavers and Water Quality Certificate to enable the utility to upgrade and construct the proposed Susquehanna-Roseland transmission project.

To view the full application and site plans click here.

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NJDEP Flood Hazard Area Control Permit Application 

In accordance with the NJDEP Flood Hazard Area Control Act Rules (N.J.A.C. 7:13), PSE&G requested an application to enable the utility to upgrade and construct the proposed Susquehanna-Roseland transmission project.

To view the full application and site plans, click here.

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PSE&G files rebuttal testimony 

Testimony

Exhibits

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PSE&G files proposal with NJ BPU to relocate Jefferson Switching Station 

On August 21, 2009, PSE&G filed a notification letter with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJ BPU) about the utility's proposal to relocate the Jefferson Switching Station to Hopatcong. This switching station is a necessary part of the Susquehanna-Roseland transmission line project.

This proposal is in accordance with PSE&G’s Highlands Mitigation Plan, which was accepted and approved by the New Jersey Highlands Council in June 2009.

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Public Scoping Hearing for Susquehanna-Roseland power project scheduled for July 27 

The Morris County Parks Commission will hold a New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Green Acres Public Scoping Hearing on Monday, July 27, 2009 at 6 p.m. at Camp Jefferson Community Lodge, 81 Weldon Road, Lake Hopatcong, NJ to address an easement diversion needed for two parcels of land within the Mahlon Dickerson Reservation in Jefferson Township. This easement diversion is necessary for construction of the Susquehanna-Roseland transmission line.

PSE&G currently has aerial easement rights for one circuit for these two parcels. However, PSE&G is asking for an easement diversion so it can install a second circuit within the existing right of way. PSE&G currently has all the other necessary rights within the easement area. The utility is not proposing to install any new structures on these two parcels.

Following the Public Scoping Hearing, there will be a 30-day public comment period. After the comment period concludes, PSE&G will collect the comments and incorporate them in to its easement diversion application. Green Acres will then review PSE&G’s application. If Green Acres grants the application with a preliminary approval, deeming the application is complete; PSE&G then can complete all necessary appraisals and land surveys. Once the appraisals and land surveys are complete, another public hearing will be scheduled (date to be determined). After that hearing, there will be another 30-day public comment period. Upon completion of that comment period, PSE&G will send the final application to Green Acres for final approval. If Green Acres approves the application, it then goes to the State House Commission for formal final approval. Once that approval is granted, work can begin.

For more information about the hearing, visit the Morris County Parks Commission Web site at morrisparks.net.

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PSE&G’s Highlands Mitigation Plan approved by Highlands Council 06/09 

June 25, 2009

The New Jersey Highlands Council today voted in favor of PSE&G’s Highlands Comprehensive Mitigation Plan in preparation to build the NJ portion of the Susquehanna-Roseland power line. This plan will minimize the impacts of the project on the environment while enabling PSE&G to ensure safe, reliable electric service for years to come. The Susquehanna-Roseland power line is required to remedy overloaded circuits and maintain the reliability of the power grid in our region. Failure to do so may result in brownouts and blackouts as soon as 2012.

In September 2008, PSE&G filed its Highlands Applicability Determination with the Highlands Council. However, that filing raised some concerns from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), environmental organizations and the public. In response to those concerns, PSE&G amended that filing with the mitigation plan.

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PSE&G submits Highlands mitigation plan 5/09 

May 19, 2009

Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSE&G) today proposed a number of significant environmental mitigation measures as part of its current application before the Highlands Council for the Susquehanna-Roseland power line. PSE&G amended its Highlands Applicability Determination (HAD) filing by submitting a Comprehensive Mitigation Plan.

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The NJ BPU schedules public hearings 5/09 

In January, PSE&G submitted its application to the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJ BPU) to construct the Susquehanna-Roseland transmission line that the PJM Interconnection determined is necessary to ensure reliability in the region. At that time, the NJ BPU stated that as part of its review process there would be public hearings. The public hearings provide an opportunity for you to comment publicly on the project. The BPU will make a decision regarding the project later this year.

The public hearing dates are as follows:

June 11, 2009
Sussex County Community College Theater
7 p.m.
One College Hill Road
Newton, NJ 07860

June 18, 2009
Sussex County Community College Theater
7 p.m.
One College Hill Road
Newton, NJ 07860

June 30, 2009
Frelinghuysen Arboretum (Auditorium)
7 p.m.
53 East Hanover Ave.
Morristown, NJ 07960

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Filed comments with Highlands Council 2/09 

February 5, 2009

The Highlands Region is a treasure that must be preserved. But when the state legislators drafted a law to protect the region, they understood that power lines had to carry electricity. So they provided for an exemption for upgrades of public utility lines.

PSE&G asked the New Jersey Highlands Council for permission to receive such an exemption. We have a plan to make our footprint as light as possible by staying within the existing right of way. And we have plans to mitigate even the small impacts we must make to secure the grid.

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Filed application with the BPU 1/09 

January 12, 2009

The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities will decide whether this project is needed. We’re confident its members will listen carefully to the expert testimony and give us the green light by the end of this year so we can get to work. The BPU will also take extensive testimony from those who oppose the project, and will hold several public hearings.

PSE&G’s partner in this project, PPL Electric Utilities, also filed its application for approval with the Pennsylvania Public Utilities Commission.

After completing detailed engineering and receiving input from property owners, PSE&G updated the Project site plans to show the latest tower and access road locations. These refinements were completed in order to minimize impacts to nearby residents and the environment. To view the updated site plans, click here.

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Filed application with Highlands Council 9/08 

September 5, 2008

PSE&G filed an application for a Highlands Applicability Determination with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Since a portion of the Susquehanna-Roseland power line goes through the Highlands, PSE&G can either receive a determination that the project is exempt from the Highlands Act, or apply for a Highlands Preservation Area Approval before undertaking development of the line. Under the Highlands Act, public utilities such as PSE&G can apply for an exemption from the provisions of the Act, the regional master plan, or the rules governing the Act for "the routine maintenance and operations, rehabilitation, preservation, reconstruction, repair, or upgrade of public utility lines, rights of way, or systems, by a public utility, provided that the activity is consistent with the goals and purposes of the Highlands Act." PSE&G believes that the Susquehanna-Roseland power line is entitled to this exemption.

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How the route was selected 8/08 

PSE&G and PPL selected the preferred route for the new Susquehanna-Roseland power line. This decision was based in part on a detailed study performed by a New Jersey-based siting contractor with national experience on projects such as this (read the routing report). In addition, the company considered information gathered from three public workshops held in June 2008, meetings with elected officials and agencies, public meetings with a number of affected towns and several hundred comments submitted to the project website, reliabilityproject.pseg.com. Based on a number of critical factors, PSE&G has determined that Route B is the best choice for this project. PPL Electric Utilities (PPL) also announced the selection of this route as the best pathway for this new line. In addition to the placement of new towers and lines, PSE&G will also construct two new substations -- one in Jefferson Township, Morris County and another at its existing property in the Roseland/East Hanover area.

This route:

  • Would be constructed entirely within an existing 230kV transmission right-of-way, which already contains transmission structures and wires, for its entire length in New Jersey. This minimizes the impact to the environment, requiring no construction on virgin right-of-way and minimal clearing of vegetation.
  • Crosses the least amount of wooded wetlands and forested lands, and has the least potential to permanently alter these important habitats.
  • Has the least impact on aesthetics where the line will be built and provides the fewest environmental, engineering and construction challenges.

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Public workshops 6/08-12/08 

To date, PSE&G has held 15 public meetings and workshops with residents along the route to solicit their comments and suggestions.

At this time, there are no additional PSE&G public workshops scheduled. However, we are available to answer any questions you may have. Please click on “contact us” to submit a question or concern.  

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