American Electric Power (AEP) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with ITC Transmission, a subsidiary of ITC Holdings Corp. (ITC), to perform a technical study to evaluate the feasibility of extending AEP’s 765-kV transmission infrastructure through Michigan to enhance reliability and support a competitive market of generation supply.

The study will explore the merit and benefits of building a 765-kV transmission network in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula that would link to AEP’s 765-kV transmission system in the Midwest. The study will be shared with the Midwest ISO (MISO) and the Michigan Public Service Commission’s (MPSC) 21st Century Energy Planning team.

The study is projected to be complete in late 2006, in time for it to be shared with the MPSC 21st Century Planning team before they complete their deliberations. The MOU signed with ITC Transmission does not include provisions to build or operate transmission. Any future activities regarding Michigan transmission will be determined after the completion of the study.

“Through this agreement, we will work with ITC Transmission to determine the benefits of enhancing the Michigan transmission grid by introducing 765-kV lines, the most robust transmission in the U.S., and linking it to AEP’s 2,100-mile 765-kV transmission network in the Midwest. After the completion of the study, we will provide our analysis to the Michigan Public Service Commission, Midwest ISO and other parties to help them determine the best way to serve Michigan’s future electric reliability needs and support a successful competitive marketplace,” said Michael G. Morris, AEP’s chairman, president and chief executive officer.

“ITC Transmission continues in its mission to invest in the transmission infrastructure as a means to improve electric reliability for its customers and lower the overall cost of delivered energy,” said Joseph L. Welch, president and chief executive officer of ITC Transmission. “The transmission grid in Michigan has suffered after a 30-year trend of underinvestment, and we must begin actively looking to implement a long-term solution that will address Michigan’s current electric reliability needs now and for years to come.”