In a recent press release, the Department of the Interior confirmed a new clean energy transmission project in Arizona and California.
Ten West Link is a 125-mile proposed energy infrastructure project that will link electric substations in Tonopah, Ariz., and Blythe, Calif. The new 500kV power line will increase transmission system efficiency and durability, while easing development of new renewable energy and energy storage resources in Arizona and California. The project is expected to be online by the close of 2022.
“Approving this new transmission line on our public lands will accelerate our nation’s transition to a clean energy economy by unlocking renewable resources, creating jobs, lowering costs, and boosting local economies," Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland said in the release. "Through robust engagement with states, cities and Tribes, the Interior Department is committed to diversifying the nation’s renewable energy portfolio while at the same time combatting climate change and investing in communities.”
Deb Haaland, U.S. Department of the Interior secretary
| doi.gov
Other officials also described the work that was done.
“BLM Arizona worked closely with a variety of stakeholders and carefully considered their input in order to develop the best possible route,” BLM Arizona state Director Ray Suazo said in the release. “Through this close collaboration, we developed a route that will help meet our region’s energy needs while avoiding impacts to military readiness and operations, local communities, popular recreation areas, the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge and Tribal lands.”
Approval of the Ten West Link project follows recent approvals for construction of the Oberon, Arica and Victory Pass solar projects in Riverside County; the release said. The Oberon project will create as much as 500 megawatts of renewable energy, enough to power approximately 146,000 homes, and includes 200 megawatts of battery storage. The Arica and Victory Pass projects will result in a combined infrastructure investment of approximately $689 million, generate $5.9 million in annual operational economic benefit, provide power to over 130,000 homes, and create up to an additional 465 megawatts of clean energy generating capacity and 400 megawatts of battery storage.
