Public Utility High Voltage Electric Transmission Line Resources for Residents
- PreserveWattsTownship
- Jun 26
- 2 min read
Yesterday, as many of us were focused on ensuring Watts Township adopted responsible zoning in regard to data center usage, another very important meeting took place regarding Public Utility High Voltage Electric Transmission Lines in PA.
This informational meeting was hosted by the Newport American Legion on June 26, 2026 and featured a presentation by Darryl Lawrence, Consumer Advocate from the PA Office of Consumer Advocate.
The Office of Consumer Advocate (OCA) is a state agency that represents the interests of Pennsylvania utility consumers before the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC), federal regulatory agencies, and state and federal courts.
The informative presentation is attached and recommended for anyone concerned about the threat of additional high voltage transmission lines and expansions, and how to get involved in the process to ensure your voice is heard.
Here's a snippet:
Application Process to Build/Rebuild a High Voltage Transmission Line
A public utility must file an Application with the PUC.
The PUC’s Regulations for siting and construction of HV transmission lines can be found here:
Importantly, a public utility cannot exercise the power of eminent domain until the PUC approves the Application.
Information on the following potential projects is also included for:
Juniata-Sunbury Project
Juniata to Honey Grove Project
Juniata to Albertis Project
Kammer to Juniata Project
Juniata to Bernheisel ProjectWays for you to participate in the Application proceedings:
File a protest or petition to intervene and become a party to the case
Submit an informal written objection letter or comment (without becoming a party to the case)
Testify at a Public Input Hearing (without becoming a party to the case)
Request a Property Visit (or Site View) along the Route
Becoming a Party to the Case: What is a Protest?
Protest – a formal pleading that states your objections and concerns.
Filing a protest will make you an active “party of record” to the proceeding.
As an active party, you will receive service of all discovery, testimony, motions, and other legal documents, and likewise you must serve all parties when you file a document.
The Commission’s website provides instructions for filing a Protest:
https://www.puc.pa.gov/electricity/transmission-lines/
On April 23, 2026, Fayette County PA filed a Protest against the PUC regarding the electrical transmission line expansion projects.
"The Commissioners believe that the proposed project will have an excessively negative impact on farmland and on scenic areas in the County. Although energy development is a priority in the County, agriculture and tourism must also be preserved. In this instance, the negative effects of the proposed project outweigh any benefits to the County. Therefore, as currently proposed, the Fayette County Commissioners' official position is to oppose this project.”
