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DOC EFP Staff <br /> Comments and Recommendations <br /> PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 <br /> Page 2 <br /> Documents Attached. <br /> 1. Site map illustrating the project area/location. <br /> Note: Relevant documents and additional information can be found on eDockets (E002/TL-11- <br /> 223) or the Commission's Energy Facilities Permitting website at: <br /> http://energytacilities.puc.state.mn.us/Docket.html'?Id=32082 <br /> Statement of the Issue <br /> Should the Commission accept or reject the application as substantially complete under the <br /> Alternative Review Process of the Power Plant Siting Act (Minnesota Statutes 2I6E.001 to <br /> 216E.18)? If accepted, should the Commission authorize the EFP to appoint a public advisor <br /> and an advisory task force? <br /> If the application is rejected, the Commission must advise the applicant of the deficiencies in the <br /> application. <br /> Introduction and Background <br /> On June 7, 2011, Northern States Power, a Minnesota Corporation (Xcel Energy or Applicant), <br /> submitted a high voltage transmission line (HVTL) Route Permit application to the Commission <br /> for the proposed Orono Substation Replacement and 115 kV Transmission Line Project <br /> (Project). <br /> Minnesota Statutes Section 216E.03, subd. 2, provides that no person may construct a high <br /> voltage transmission line without a route permit from the Commission. An HVTL is defined as a <br /> transmission line of 100 kV or more and greater than 1,500 feet in length in Minnesota Statutes <br /> Section 216E.01, subd. 4. The proposed transmission lines are HVTLs and therefore a route <br /> permit is required prior to construction. The application was submitted pursuant to the <br /> provisions of the Alternative Permitting Process outlined in Minnesota Rules7850.2800, subpart <br /> 2 and 7850.2900. <br /> The Project does not meet the criteria for a"large energy facility" as defined in Minnesota <br /> Statute 216B.2421, because, although it has a capacity in excess of 100 kV, it is less than 10 <br /> miles long. <br /> Project Description <br /> The Project, as proposed by the Applicant, would replace the existing 69 kV Orono Substation <br /> with a new 115 kV Substation at the same location, but with a larger footprint. The Project <br /> would connect the new substation to the existing Xcel Energy 115 kV transmission line 0831 <br /> through a new double circuit 115 kV transmission lines of approximately 2,040 feet. The <br /> Project, as proposed, would also remove approximately 1,030 feet of 115 kV transmission line <br /> 2 <br />