Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association has just energized the 230-kV Burlington-Lamar transmission line, a monumental stride in their Eastern Colorado Transmission Expansion project. This 112-mile line, stretching from Burlington to Lamar, is more than just a new power line; it’s a strategic move that could reshape the energy landscape of eastern Colorado. The project, which began in February 2023, includes substations in both towns and is the first of several upgrades planned through 2028. The energization of this line is a testament to Tri-State’s commitment to providing reliable, resilient, and affordable power to its members.
The Burlington-Lamar line is not just about enhancing the existing infrastructure; it’s about paving the way for future growth. With the potential for additional generation interconnections of over 700 MW, this line could significantly bolster the region’s power supply. Chris Pink, Tri-State’s senior vice president for operations, emphasized the strategic importance of the project, stating, “The completion of our Burlington-Lamar transmission line represents a strategic and cost-effective approach to provide for reliable, resilient and affordable power for our members, while reducing system congestion and providing for the addition of new generating resources.”
The benefits of this project extend beyond the immediate region. The Eastern Colorado Transmission Expansion, when completed, will significantly bolster reliability for members including San Isabel Electric Association, Southeast Colorado Power Association, K.C. Electric Association, Morgan County Rural Electric Association, and Mountain View Electric Association. These cooperatives, spread across various counties in Colorado, will see enhanced power reliability and reduced congestion, thanks to this strategic upgrade.
The journey to this energization was not without its challenges. Tri-State led a task force involving 60 stakeholders representing 24 entities at the Colorado Coordinated Planning Group. The group evaluated 15 proposals, ultimately choosing the one that met Tri-State’s needs at the lowest cost. The project required permits from more than a dozen local, state, and federal agencies, including the Colorado Department of Transportation, the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The line crosses more than 100 parcels, with about 95% of the transmission line developed on private land.
Looking ahead, Tri-State is already planning further expansions. Engineering activities are underway on a new 31-mile-long, 230-kV transmission line from the Boone Substation near Boone to a new Tri-State Huckleberry switching station south of Pueblo, expected to go into service in 2026. Additionally, routing activities are underway for a new 72-mile-long, 230-kV transmission line between Tri-State’s Big Sandy Substation near Limon and a new Badger Creek switching station south of Fort Morgan, expected to be complete in 2028.
This news is a game-changer for the energy sector in eastern Colorado. It signals a robust commitment to enhancing transmission infrastructure, which is crucial for integrating new generating resources and ensuring a reliable power supply. The strategic approach taken by Tri-State, focusing on cost-effectiveness and stakeholder collaboration, sets a benchmark for future projects. As the region continues to grow and evolve, these upgrades will be pivotal in meeting the increasing demand for power while maintaining reliability and affordability. The energization of the Burlington-Lamar line is not just a milestone for Tri-State; it’s a beacon for the future of energy development in eastern Colorado.
