Texas Regulators Approve Nearly $4 Billion Power Line Projects Amidst Calls for Delay
Texas regulators have given the green light to two significant transmission projects by Oncor Electric Delivery, totaling nearly $3.95 billion. These projects involve the construction of 424.2 miles of new 765-kilovolt power lines, with targeted completion dates in 2028 and 2029. The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) approved the routes for the Dinosaur Switch-Longshore Switch and Longshore Switch-Drill Hole Switch lines. This decision came despite objections from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and the landowner advocacy group American Stewards of Liberty, who called for delays to allow for a broader review of the state's transmission buildout. Property owners expressed concerns about the potential impact on ranching, wildlife, scenic views, and land values. However, the PUCT concluded that Oncor had demonstrated a reasonable need for the projects, citing rising electricity demand from oil and gas operations, as well as projected growth from cryptocurrency mining, data centers, and hydrogen prod... 
