CH2M HILL to oversee link-up of US transmission grids

August 11, 2010

The Tres Amigas project will comprise a series of underground high-voltage electricity "pipelines" linked in to power control systems managing the flow between the three US grids
Plans to link up America’s three transmission networks for the first time have taken a step forward, with the appointment of engineering firm CH2M HILL to manage construction.

Merchant transmission company is aiming to start construction of the SuperStation in Clovis, New Mexico, in 2012.

Denver-based CH2M HILL will provide overall program management services and logistical support to ensure the project remains on schedule for completion in 2014.

The new SuperStation will for the first time ever link together the Eastern Interconnection, Western Interconnection and the Texas Interconnection transmission grids.

The SuperStation will comprise a series of high-voltage superconductor cables to be supplied by American Superconductor Corporation, linked in with power conversion systems that will be able to control the flow of thousands of megawatts of power between the three major US grids.

It should allow for a lower amount of temporary fossil fuel power to balance the grids while making it easier for renewable energy projects to connect up to the transmission networks.

Don Zabilansky, president of CH2M HILL’s Power Group, said: “The Tres Amigas SuperStation will enable cross-regional marketing of clean electricity, enhance power grid reliability and security, and provide new opportunities for renewable energy producers. This strategic infrastructure program will transform the way electricity is delivered to customers across the United States utilizing the most advanced technology.”

Tres Amigas

Tres Amigas LLC, which has its headquarters in Santa Fe, New Mexico, will become a balancing authority once the SuperStation goes live.

The company was founded by Phil Harris, the former CEO of the world’s largest transmission balancing area, the PJM Interconnection. Mr Harris said CH2M Hill had the expertise and experience needed to complete the SuperStation on schedule.

Plans for the SuperStation were approved by FERC, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, back in March (see this BrighterEnergy.org story).

Mr Harris said: “The Tres Amigas SuperStation will offer multiple benefits to power consumers and energy producers across North America, including savings projected in the hundreds of millions of dollars due to the more economic dispatch of electric power.

“Tres Amigas will also increase the value of several large transmission projects planned for the Southwest and will support the expansion of a reliable national corridor system.”