Green Jersey

Susquehanna-Roseland line before the BPU

PSE&G submitted its application to the Board of Public Utilities yesterday to expand a high-voltage power line that would stretch through four counties in North Jersey. (View it here.)

By applying for the Susquehanna-Roseland transmission line expansion this way, the company bypasses a process that would have required approvals from the affected towns.

BPU spokesman Doyal Siddell told the Express-Times the state’s review could take a year. Public hearings have not yet been scheduled.

The 45-mile New Jersey portion of the 500-volt line would begin in Hardwick Township, pass through Andover Township and Jefferson Township and continue on to Montville and Roseland. PSE&G says it’s needed to satisfy an increased demand and prevent future blackouts.

“The line is needed because demand for electricity in our area has risen substantially in recent years, and is expected to continue to grow over the long term despite the current economic slowdown and conservation efforts,” Ralph LaRossa, president of PSE&G, said in a press release.

The line would be linked to another in Pennsylvania that has been proposed by PPL Electric Utilities.

New Jersey environmental groups have voiced opposition to the expansion proposal, and yesterday urged BPU to reject it.

“The line hitches New Jersey’s energy future to dirty coal plants in Pennsylvania,” Environment New Jersey executive director Dena Mattola Jaborska said yesterday in a press release. “This is a major diversion from the path to a clean energy future, a path New Jersey has committed to following.”

Opponents have said the line expansion conflicts with the state’s Energy Master Plan, and could lower property values and present a health hazard.

Meanwhile, people have until Jan. 30 to comment on the Highlands Council’s recent report that said the power line expansion is inconsistent with the 2004 Highlands law.