NIPSCO announced the completion of the new 100-mile Reynolds-Topeka electric transmission line project, connecting NIPSCO’s Reynolds substation (in Reynolds, IN), Burr Oak substation (in Burr Oak, IN) and Hiple Substation (near Topeka, IN).
The 345-kilovolt (kV) line will enhance system reliability, offer environmental benefits by increasing access to wind and solar energy, and allow for greater access to supplies of electricity, including improved access to lower-cost electricity for customers.
“The completion of this project provides significant value to our customers and beyond as we further strengthen and enhance our energy infrastructure for the future,” said NIPSCO president Violet Sistovaris.
Reynolds-Topeka is one of 17 priority Multi-Value Projects (MVPs) and one of two in Indiana identified by the Midcontinent Independent System Operator, Inc. (MISO), which controls and operates the transmission grid for all or parts of 15 Midwest U.S. states, including Indiana, and the Canadian province of Manitoba.
The project began in 2012, with construction commencing in mid-2016.
This week also marks the completion of the nearly 70-mile Greentown-Reynolds 765-kV line, connecting the Greentown Station near Kokomo, IN, to the Reynolds Station located in Reynolds, IN. Greentown-Reynolds was the second MVP project in Indiana, and it was jointly constructed by NIPSCO and Pioneer Transmission, LLC – a joint venture of Duke Energy and American Electric Power (AEP).
The projects had a combined cost of approximately $600 million.