ITCTransmission has received approval from the Midwest Independent Transmission System Operator for the Thumb Loop high-voltage electric transmission line project. The project will serve as the "backbone" of a transmission system designed to deliver wind power from Michigan's "Thumb" area to locations where it is needed. The proposed system consists of approximately 140 miles of double-circuit, 345,000 volt (345 kV) transmission lines and three new 345 kV substations forming a loop through the Thumb region of Michigan's Lower Peninsula.

"Today's decision by the Midwest ISO board is an important step forward as we plan the necessary transmission infrastructure to incorporate renewables on a more comprehensive basis," said Tom Vitez, vice president of planning at ITC. "We appreciate the efforts of the Midwest ISO and the stakeholders who reviewed this project and recognized that it is critical to integrating wind resources into the energy mix."

Under the provisions of Michigan's Clean, Renewable and Efficient Energy Act (Public Act 295), ITCTransmission can now apply to the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) for expedited siting approval of the project, which by statute is defined as a maximum of six months