A strong transmission backbone is key to opening pathways for Pennsylvania's rich energy resources and to boost regional growth. In this instance, PJM identified a need for additional 500 kV transmission infrastructure in the greater York County area to eliminate future reliability concerns on the bulk electric system. This project will connect to transmission lines within PJM’s operating area to improve electricity flow and reliability.

With more than 100 years of experience, PPL Electric Utilities has invested in transmission system upgrades and continues to innovate and advance its electric grid through projects like this to improve reliability, protect the grid from extreme weather and enable renewable energy interconnections.

A regional transmission project like this will benefit millions of customers within the PJM footprint.

While the original plan called for a double circuit 500 kV / 230 kV transmission line, PJM has since determined that, in order to meet evolving energy demands, it would be best to change the scope of this project to a double circuit 500 kV transmission line. All other major details of the project remain the same, including the construction of a new switchyard.

By upgrading the capacity to meet future demand now, we can minimize disruptions to the community, environment and residents for the foreseeable future. This will allow us to build for the future and ensure that our infrastructure remains resilient, reliable and capable of meeting the needs of our growing region for years to come.

The upgraded transmission line will utilize an existing transmission corridor that runs through Chanceford, Hopewell and East Hopewell Townships as part of a larger regional solution.

The new switchyard will be built in Chanceford Township.

The new transmission poles for the double-circuit 500 kV transmission lines will be self-weathering (brown) steel poles, similar to what is currently in the right-of-way, ranging between 170 and 190 feet in height. Generally, the line will be approximately 30 feet taller than what is currently in the right-of-way. The actual height of each pole will be finalized when the line is designed.