Ptarmigan Substation Project
Public Service Company of Colorado (PSCo), an Xcel Energy Company, is proposing to construct the Ptarmigan substation project. The project consists of an electric distribution substation and its associated overhead double-circuit 230,000-volt (230-kV) electric transmission line, an access road and two initial buried distribution feeder lines in or near Silverthorne, Colo.
The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) determined that the project is considered part of the company’s normal business activities to meet the demand for electricity and improve service reliability to the communities in the Silverthorne area. At least one summer season is needed to construct the project.
PSCo has been attempting to site a substation in the Silverthorne area since 1997. Our most recent attempts began in 2006. In that time we have evaluated several sites, held open houses and met with stakeholders and jurisdictions to discuss the siting study and process, and provide updates.
Purpose and Need
Construction of new businesses and homes increases the need for electricity, as do changes in the market for power driven by advanced technologies with new power requirements. For example, most new high technology customers require not only more power per square foot of space, but also a higher quality of power. These energy users rely on sensitive equipment and require a power supply that is free from voltage fluctuations, flicker, interruptions and outages. Power consumption trends and requirements also have changed at the residential level as a result of personal computers, electronics and home offices. Substations play a key role in helping ensure a high quality power supply for existing and future customers.
Currently, our Dillon and Summit substations serve the Frisco, Silverthorne, Dillon and Keystone areas. These areas have experienced steady electrical load growth and are expected to continue a two to three percent annual growth rate into the future. A new substation is needed to provide reliable electric service to the area.
Public involvement
August 12, 2010 Open House
To provide an update on the siting process and information on the most suitable site identified to date, we are holding a public open house Thursday, August 12 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Silverthorne Pavilions. The public is invited to attend and meet with our representatives to discuss the most up-to-date information about the substation. Please look for more project information and open house updates on this Web site in the weeks before the August 12 meeting.
Supporting Documents
Contact us
If you have questions or comments, or wish to be put on a mailing list for the project, you may contact Larry Claxton at 303-571-7089 or Todd Anderson at 303-245-2285.
