FPL Energy Files to Build New Transmission Line in Texas

Under its plan, Lone Star Transmission will build, own and operate a 180-200 mile, high voltage, direct current, open access transmission line to bring renewable energy resources from West Texas to the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Dubbed the "DFW Express," the new transmission line would be constructed with a capacity of 2,000 megawatts (MW) and stretch from near Abilene to the Dallas/Fort Worth load center.

"Our proposal to build the DFW Express will enhance the ability to transmit power from West to North Texas and enable continued large-scale development of emission-free wind power in West Texas," said Mitch Davidson, president of FPL Energy. "The DFW Express proposal will help serve the growing energy needs in the Dallas/Fort Worth load center, while at the same time minimizing the existing transmission congestion between the regions."

Texas State Senator Troy Fraser said, "I have long supported the building of transmission and new generation in West Texas, and the DFW Express is a critical first step in ensuring that the state will meet its long-term power needs. I am particularly pleased that FPL Energy is proposing to utilize this innovative technology which will bring more clean, affordable power directly from West Texas to the Dallas/Fort Worth area while maximizing efficiency and minimizing the impact of transmission lines on landowners."

Opening up West Texas to continued wind development through the proposed DFW Express will lead to billions of dollars in capital investments and significant economic development activity throughout the region. In addition, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas will benefit from thousands of additional megawatts of generation capacity.