Environmental Analysis Part of Updated Transmission Line Application

After getting approval from the California Independent System Operator (Cal-ISO) for its proposed Sunrise Powerlink electric-transmission line project, San Diego Gas & Electric filed with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) an updated application and environmental assessment of the project.

The Cal-ISO is responsible for maintaining the reliability of the statewide power system. The Cal-ISO's board of governors' determination of the need for the project is a key piece of SDG&E's filing, which formally launches the CPUC's regulatory review process.

The line between San Diego and Imperial counties will deliver 1,000 megawatts of electricity to improve energy reliability in the region, help SDG&E and other utilities in California meet the state's renewable resources goal, and reduce overall energy costs for customers, according to the company.

"Today's filing is the result of nearly a year of extensive engineering and environmental studies and in-field analysis of various route options, as well as analysis of alternatives other than transmission," said James P. Avery, senior vice president-electric for SDG&E.

"When we announced the proposed route options in March, we said we expected changes based on community input and what we found during our assessment, and that has happened.

"We have continued to work with local, state and federal agencies - as well as the affected communities - to refine our preferred route and alternatives to reduce the overall impacts of the project."

For more information go to www.sdge.com.