About the project

Basin Electric Power Cooperative is proposing to construct approximately 400 miles of transmission line across portions of Wyoming, Nebraska, South Dakota and North Dakota. The project would connect the Laramie River area in Wyoming to the Belfield area in North Dakota. Project plans also include building two new substations in South Dakota.

Southwest Power Pool (SPP), the organization responsible for planning the regional power grid, identified this project after studies showed opportunities to strengthen the transmission system, improve reliability and move electricity more efficiently across the region. The project is expected to improve access to lower-cost electricity for rural communities while supporting a stronger, more resilient regional electric grid.

For communities across the region, the project will:

• Provide additional capacity to relieve grid congestion, improve operational flexibility, and enhance reliability between Wyoming, Nebraska, South Dakota, and North Dakota systems.
• Help keep electricity flowing by providing additional pathways for power during storms and other unexpected events.
• Reinforce the backbone of the regional grid and reduce the need for additional 230-kilovolt upgrades on the system.

No route has been selected. Basin Electric is beginning the public outreach process to gather input from landowners, communities, and other stakeholders before identifying a preferred route. Community input helps Basin Electric better understand local conditions and considerations and is one of many factors used to evaluate and refine potential transmission line routes. Other factors include existing land uses, engineering and environmental factors, and input from those who know the area best. Structure size and spacing will vary based on terrain, engineering requirements, and local conditions.

Project schedule

Community Contact

Do you have questions or feedback? We want to hear from you. Please email info@basinelectricpower.com or call (605) 215-1452.

Vendor Contact

If you are interested in supplying materials or services to Basin Electric, visit the Procurement Contacts page. Our staff will advise on how to best communicate your company's capabilities to Basin Electric.