(Chatham) — A local utility wants to build new lines to connect with a solar farm in Pittsylvania County.
Appalachian Power wants to rebuild about a mile of the transmission line and build nine miles more of lines to increase the capacity for the Blue Ridge Solar farm in Pittsylvania County. The project will also replace some older lines.
AEP says this will reduce power outages for customers. They’re asking for approval from the State Corporation Commission.
Right now there are 24 routes being examined. AEP expects to choose one by early spring next year. The current timeline calls for construction in late 2026 and completion by late 2027.
Earlier this year, the SCC signed off on Blue Ridge Solar. That’s a 95-megawatt facility that will be built west of Chatham. It’s a 158 (m) million-dollar project that will generate enough power to supply over 37-thousand homes. It will have two or three full-time workers.