Portland General Electric (PGE) has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding with Grid United and ALLETE to develop the North Plains Connector, an approximately 415-mile HVDC transmission line to be constructed with endpoints near Bismarck, North Dakota and Colstrip, Montana.
The parties plan to finalize definitive agreements regarding PGE's participation, which is expected to involve a 20% ownership share of the project.
The HVDC transmission connection among three regional U.S. electric energy markets, the Midcontinent Independent System Operator, the Western Interconnection and the Southwest Power Pool will provide additional flexibility and the sharing of resources across multiple time zones.
The electric transmission infrastructure is anticipated to offer PGE with 600 MW of transfer capacity, access to diverse energy resources, enhanced wholesale markets and ease congestion on the existing western transmission system.
The project represents an approximately $3.2 billion total investment in Montana and North Dakota and is also expected to create over 600 jobs during construction. The infrastructure will also enable additional energy production in Montana and North Dakota on completion.
As per the terms of the agreement, Grid United will continue to fund the development of North Plains Connector, while PGE will invest upon receiving regulatory approvals and permits.
