Green Jersey

Power lines on Highlands Council agenda today

This afternoon, the Highlands Council will hear a presentation by representatives of PSE&G on its proposed power line expansion through North Jersey.

The energy giant’s proposal of a new high-voltage line for the Susquehanna-Roseland corridor has met with resistance from environmentalists and residents. Critics are concerned about the potential repercussions of a ramped-up line — especially within the context of the Highlands — and where the power would come from. PSE&G, meanwhile, has cited an increased demand for power and desire to prevent blackouts.

New Jersey electric customers would pay a portion of the cost of the line — about 14 percent of it, according to the company, whose application is before the state Board of Public Utilites.

Update: The BPU also will hold a meeting on the project today (2 p.m. in Newark, 2 Gateway Center, 8th floor). Board spokesman Doyal Siddell said the pre-hearing meeting is designed to help set the schedule and overall nature of the proceedings to come.

PSE&G is scheduled to present at the Highlands Council’s regular meeting at 4 p.m. (100 North Road in Chester); the council will hear public comment, but is not expected to take action.

As proposed, the 500-kilovolt line would pass through New Jersey and Pennsylvania, following the path of an existing, lower-voltage line. In New Jersey, it would stretch from Warren to Essex counties, passing through Hardwick Township, Andover, Jefferson, Montville, Roseland and 11 other municipalities, according to the company.