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# Final Transmission Line Segment Kicks Off in Western U.S.
- URL: https://www.industrialbriefs.com/final-transmission-line-segment-construction/
- Published: 2026-09-08T11:30:26.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-08T11:30:26.000Z
- Description: The final segment of the Southwest Intertie Project, a $1 billion investment in transmission infrastructure, has begun construction. This development is crucial for enhancing grid reliability and expanding energy access across the Western U.S., with significant opportunities for AECM professionals.
- Author: IndustrialBriefs
- Tags: engineering, construction, policy

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Construction of the final segment of the Southwest Intertie Project (SWIP), a major 576-mile transmission corridor stretching from Idaho to southern Nevada, has officially begun. This significant milestone was marked by a groundbreaking ceremony in Ely, Nevada, on September 3, led by LS Power's affiliate Great Basin Transmission. The SWIP-North, a 285-mile, 500-kilovolt (kV) transmission line, is set to connect the Midpoint Substation near Twin Falls, Idaho, with the Robinson Summit Substation near Ely, and is expected to become operational by 2028\. This project represents a substantial investment of more than $1 billion, aimed at enhancing grid reliability and expanding access to diverse power supply resources across the Western U.S.

**What Happened**  
The Southwest Intertie Project's final segment, SWIP-North, marks a critical advancement in the U.S. power infrastructure landscape. LS Power, a prominent player in power infrastructure development, announced the project's commencement as a vital link that will complete a new transmission pathway between the Pacific Northwest and the Desert Southwest. This segment alone involves a $1 billion investment and will play a crucial role in reducing grid congestion and improving electricity reliability across regions. As part of the overall Southwest Intertie Project, it joins two previously completed phases: the 231-mile One Nevada Transmission Line (ON Line), operational since 2014, and the 60-mile DesertLink Line, which began service in 2020.

The SWIP-North project is more than 70% located in Nevada and will connect to the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) grid, providing a robust framework for energy distribution and resilience against extreme weather events. Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo emphasized the project's importance, highlighting the additional transmission capacity and enhanced energy reliability it promises for Nevada residents and businesses.

**What This Means for Your Business**  
For businesses in the architecture, engineering, construction, and manufacturing (AECM) sectors, the SWIP-North project presents substantial opportunities in procurement and contracting. The project's $1 billion investment opens doors for suppliers, contractors, and technology providers specializing in power infrastructure. Additionally, the project's completion will enhance grid reliability and flexibility, which is crucial for operations reliant on stable power supply.

Compliance officers and government contractors must be aware of the regulatory frameworks involved, including coordination with CAISO and adherence to federal energy transmission regulations. The project underscores the importance of collaboration between private developers, utilities, and regional grid operators, setting a precedent for future large-scale infrastructure projects. Businesses should consider potential partnerships with LS Power and its affiliates to leverage shared capacity rights agreements, particularly those involving NV Energy and Idaho Power.

**What US Operators Should Watch**  
Operators should closely monitor the projected operational date of 2028 for the SWIP-North segment, as this will determine when the full capacity of more than 2 GW of bidirectional electricity becomes available. The capacity agreement between NV Energy and LS Power affiliates, which includes shared capacity rights, is a critical aspect for businesses looking to engage with grid operations. Additionally, the ongoing developments in regulatory policies and compliance frameworks, such as those set by CAISO, will influence operational strategies and investment decisions. Tracking updates from LS Power and its partners on construction progress and regulatory approvals will be vital for stakeholders looking to align with this transformative project.

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*Source: https://www.powermag.com/construction-starts-on-last-segment-of-major-western-u-s-transmission-project/.* [*Read the original story ->*](https://www.powermag.com/construction-starts-on-last-segment-of-major-western-u-s-transmission-project/?ref=industrialbriefs.com)