ITC Midwest, the owner of much of this region’s high-voltage electric transmission lines, has finished rebuilding a 27-mile line running between two company substations near Adams and Bolan, Iowa. The line, rated at 161 kilovolts, supports the expanding wind generation in the region. The company is also about to begin rebuilding a 20-mile line running between Hayward and Kensett, Iowa.

ITC Midwest began working in April 2009 to rebuild a previous line along the route, increasing the line’s capacity and replacing again wood structures with steel structures. Compared to the previous line, the upgrades will permit the new line to transport more energy, operate more reliably and serve anticipated future growth in the area. The line was completed and energized last month. ITC contractors have completed final cleanup and company representatives are working with neighbors to address any outstanding issues along the line route.

In addition, ITC Midwest will build a new electric substation on five acres southeast of Glenville. The new substation will relieve the load on other substations in the region and prepare for future growth in Freeborn and Mower counties in Minnesota.

“We appreciated the support and cooperation of landowners, businesses and communities in the area, who allowed us to make this significant upgrade in regional energy reliability,” said ITC Midwest Executive Director Doug Collins. “ITC Midwest is continuing to invest in the electric transmission system to enhance the region’s electric service and support the connection of renewable resources to the grid.”

ITC Midwest acquired nearly 6,800 mils of electric transmission lines in Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois and Missouri in December 2007 from Alliant Energy’s Interstate Power and Light Co. subsidiary. ITC Midwest is a wholly owned subsidiary of ITC Holdings Corp. The company has an operating facility in Albert Lea.