Generating electricity is only part of the process of supplying electric power. It's sometimes easy to overlook the role of transmission lines in delivering power from power plants to the wide-open spaces of Texas. Without reliable electric transmission, modern life wouldn't be very modern. Homes would go dark, businesses couldn't compete and educational facilities and government services would come to a standstill.

With Texas' growing population, new lines are sometimes needed so customers can obtain reliable, economical power.

At the same time, LCRA Transmission Services Corporation operates its network of transmission lines by paying close attention to the needs of private property owners. LCRA's transmission affiliate encourages people to become involved in the public involvement process for establishing new transmission lines.

Below you will find information on the steps involved in locating, building and maintaining transmission lines, plus links to the details on specific transmission line projects.

Here are the steps involved
The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) must approve the construction of all transmission lines of more than one mile in Texas. The following shows the steps involved:

• During the early stages of the public involvement process, LCRA will host an open meeting for affected landowners and interested parties. This meeting will allow residents to view maps and displays that explain the project and to get answers to any questions they may have about the project. Link to transmission line projects information.
• After selecting the alternative routes, the corporation will apply for a Certificate of Convenience and Necessity (CCN) from the PUC.
• The alternative routes are based on numerous factors, including public input, environmental criteria, aesthetics, cost, and land use. The PUC will then make the final decision whether to approve the application and which route will be constructed.
• The corporation will immediately notify affected landowners upon submitting its CCN application. If the PUC approves the project, a final notice will be sent to landowners indicating whether they are on the approved route. The approval process can take up to one year.

Those who own property directly affected by the project will be contacted by an LCRA Transmission Services Corporation representative prior to construction to discuss easement acquisition.

See related information

• Details on transmission projects
  Check here for detailed information on current transmission line projects, including maps and aerial photos of proposed routes and exhibits from open houses.
• Property easement and construction
  See how LCRA's transmission affiliate works directly with landowners to acquire and maintain transmission line easements.
• Electric and magnetic fields
  Read more about electric and magnetic fields -- also called EMF -- which are found everywhere electricity is used.
• How electricity is transmitted
  See an interactive illustration showing how electricity gets from power plants to homes and businesses.