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MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
I ENERGY FACILITY PERMITTING
111 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
I ORONO SUBSTATION B TATION EXPANSION AND NEW
115KV TRANI SMISSION LINE PROJECT
MPUC Docket No. E002/TL-11-223
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pMINNESOTA
November 2011
DEPARTMENT OP
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RESPONSIBLE GOVERNMENT UNIT
Minnesota Department of Commerce Suzanne Steinhauer
Division of Energy Resources State Permit Manager
85 7th Place East, Suite 500 (651) 296-2888
St. Paul,Minnesota 55101-2198 Suzanne.steinhauer@state.mn.us
' PROJECT OWNER
Xcel Energy Joseph G. Sedarski
414 Nicollet Mall,MP-8 Senior Permitting Analyst
Minneapolis,Minnesota 55401 (612) 330-6435
joseph.g.sedarski@xcelenergy.com
ABSTRACT
Pursuant to the provisions of Minnesota Statutes,chapter 216E,Xcel Energy(applicant) filed a
high-voltage transmission line route permit application with the Minnesota Public Utilities
Commission (Commission) on June 7,2011, for a proposed 115 kilovolt(kV) transmission line and
modifications to the existing transmission lines and substations.
Xcel Energy proposes to construct the Orono Substation Expansion and new 115 kV Transmission
' Line Project(Project). As proposed, the Project would replace the existing 69 kV Orono Substation
with a new 115 kV substation at the same location,but with a larger footprint. The Project would
connect the upgraded substation to the existing Xcel Energy 115 kV transmission line 0831 through
' a new double circuit 115 kV transmission lines of approximately 0.4 miles. The Project,as
proposed,would also relocate approximately 0.2 miles of single circuit 115 kV transmission line.
While not part of the Route Permit requested by Xcel Energy,approximately 400 feet of the existing
Great River Energy 69 kV transmission line BD would be rerouted around the new Orono
Substation.
t Minnesota Department of Commerce Energy Facilities Permitting(EFP) is tasked with conducting
environmental review of the applications for transmission line route permits. The intent of this
environmental assessment document and the environmental review process is to inform the public,
' the applicant,and decision-makers of the potential impacts from the proposed project and possible
mitigations for those impacts.
' Persons interested in these matters can register their names on the project contact list at
http://energyfacilities.puc.state.mn.us/Docket.html?Id=32082 or by contacting: Suzanne
Steinhauer,Energy Facility Permitting,85 7th Place East,Suite 500,St. Paul,Minnesota,55101,
' phone: (651)-296-2888,email: suzanne.steinhauer@state.mn.us.
Documents related to this project can be found at the above website or also by going to:
https://www.edockets.state.mn.us/EFiling/search.jsp and entering"11" for Year and"223" for
' Number,under search criteria.
Environmental Assessment
PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page i
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Acronyms, Abbreviations and Definitions
ACSS Aluminum Conductor Steel Supported
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BMP best management practice
BNSF Burlington Northern and Santa Fe
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BPA Bonneville Power Association
Commission Minnesota Public Utilities Commission
1 dB decibels
dB(A) A-weighted sound level recorded in units of decibels
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EFP Department of Commerce Energy Facilities Permitting
ELF Extra Low Frequency
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EPRI Electric Power Research Institute
EMF electromagnetic field
EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency
GPS Global Positioning System
GRE Great River Energy I HVTL high voltage transmission line
Hz Hertz
kV kilovolt I kV/M Kilovolt per meter
kWh Kilowatt hour
MDH Minnesota Department of Health I mG milligauss
Mn DNR Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Mn DOT Minnesota Department of Transportation I MPCA Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
MW Mega Watt
NAC noise area classification I NERC North American Electric Reliability Council
NESC National Electrical Safety Code
NEV Neutral-to-Earth Voltage
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NIEHS National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
NWI National Wetland Inventory
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OHWL Ordinary High Water Level
ppm parts per million
ROW Right-of-Way
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SHPO State Historic Preservation Office
SWPPP Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan
UHF Ultra High Frequency
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USACE United States Corp of Engineers
USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service
WHO World Health Organization
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Environmental Assessment
PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page ii
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 Contents
I Acronyms,Abbreviations and Definitions ii
1 IN PRODUCTION 1
2 REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 3
2.1 Certificate of Need 3
I2.2 Alternative Permitting Process 3
2.3 Route Permit Application 3
2.4 Public Information and Scoping Meeting 3
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2.5 Environmental Assessment 4
3 PROPOSED PROJECT 5
3.1 Purpose and Need 5
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3.2 Project Location 5
3.3 Route Descriptions 5
Xcel Energy Proposed Route 5
I Baker Park Reserve Route Alternative 7
3.4 Alternatives Proposed but not Evaluated in Detail 7
3.5 Route Width 9
I 3.6 Right-of-Way 9
3.7 Conductors 10
3.8 Structures 10
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3.9 Associated Facilities and Substations
Cost 13
3.10 13
4 FACILITY CONSTRUCTION 14
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4.1 Utility Right-of-Way Easement Acquisition 14
4.2 Transmission Line Structures 15
4.3 Conductors 17
4.4 Orono Substation 17
I4.5 Relocation of Line 0831 18
4.6 Great River Energy 69 kV Transmission Facilities 18
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4.7 Clean-up and Restoration 19
4.8 Maintenance Procedures 19
5 POTENTIAL IMPACTS &MITIGATION MEASURES 21
5.1 Environmental Setting 21
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5.2 Socioeconomic 21
5.3 Human Settlement 22
Proximity to Homes and Businesses and Displacement 23
I Property Values 23
Aesthetics 24
5.4 Noise 25
I Construction Noise 27
Conductor Noise 27
Substation Noise 28
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5:5 Public Health and Safety 29
Environmental Assessment
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PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page iii
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Equipment failure and unauthorized access to transmission equipment 29
Electric and Magnetic Fields 29
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Stray Voltage 37
Induced Voltage/Contact Voltage 37
Implantable Devices 38
5.6 Air Quality 39
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Ozone and Nitrogen Oxides 39
Construction/Fugitive Dust 39
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5.7 Transportation and Utilities 40
Transportation 40
Utilities 41
5.8 Zoning and Compatibility 41
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5.9 Recreation 42
5.10 Land Based Economies 43
5.11 Geology&Soils 44
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5.12 Water Resources 45
Groundwater 45
, Surface Water 46 I 5.13 Wetlands and Floodplains 47
5.14 Flora 49
5.15 Fauna 50 I 5.16 Rare and Unique Species and Habitat 50
5.17 Archaeological&Historic Resources 51
5.18 Interference 52 I Radio Interference 52
Television 52
Internet and Cellular Phones 53 I GPS-Based Navigation Systems 53
6 PERMITS&APPROVALS 54
7 ROU'Fh COMPARISONS 55
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8 REFERENCES 58
Tables I Table 1: Percent and Type of Right-of-Way Followed 10
Table 2: Transmission Structure Specifications 11
Table 3: Estimated Project Costs 13
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Table 4: 2010 Population Characteristics 22
Table 5: Common Noise Sources and Average Sound Levels 26
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Table 6: Noise Area Classifications 27
Table 7: Calculated Transmission Line Audible Noise Levels (3.28 feet above ground) 28 I Table 8: Summary of Electric and Magnetic Field Properties 30
Table 9: Typical Electric Fields (kV/m) from Common Home and Business Appliances 31
Table 10: State Established Electric and Magnetic Field Standards and Guidelines 32
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Table 11: Electric and Magnetic Field Guidelines from Internationally Organizations 33
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Environmental Assessment
PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page iv
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Table 12: Calculated Electric Fields (kV/m) for Proposed Orono 115 kV Transmission Line
' (3.28 feet above ground) 33
Table 13: Typical Magnetic Fields (mG) of Common Appliances 34
Table 14: Calculated Magnetic Fields (mG) for Proposed Orono 115 kV Transmission Line
(3.28 feet above ground) 36
Table 15: NWI Wetlands within the Proposed Route 47
' Table 16: Summary of Permits and Approvals 54
Table 17: Route Comparison 56
Figures
Figure 1: General Vicinity Map 6
Figure 2: Proposed Structure Types 12
APPENDICES
Appendix A: Scoping Decision
Appendix B: Maps
' Appendix C: Orono Substation Views
' Appendix D: Route Permit Example
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PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page v
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' 1 INTRODUCTION
Xcel Energy (applicant) has made application to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission
' (Commission) for a route permit under the alternative permitting process of the Power Plant Siting
Act(Minnesota Statute 216E). The route permit application is for the replacement of the existing
69 kV Orono Substation with a larger 115 kV substation at the same site and for the construction of
' approximately 0.4 miles of double circuit 115 kV transmission line,and relocation of approximately
0.2 miles of single-circuit 115 kV transmission line.
' Xcel Energy proposes to construct the Orono Substation Expansion and new 115 kV Transmission
Line Project(Project). The Project is located entirely within the city of Orono in Hennepin County.
As proposed,the Project would replace the existing 69 kV Orono Substation with a new 115 kV
' substation at the same location,but with a larger footprint. The Project would connect the new
substation to the existing Xcel Energy 115 kV transmission line 0831 through a new double circuit
115 kV transmission lines of approximately 0.4 miles. Xcel Energy also proposes to relocate
' approximately 0.2 miles single circuit 115 kV transmission line as part of the Project. While not part
of the Route Permit requested by Xcel Energy,approximately 400 feet of the existing Great River
Energy(GRE) 69 kV transmission line BD would be rerouted around the expanded Orono
' Substation.
Xcel Energy proposes to use steel single-pole structures with spans of approximately 300 to 500 feet
' between poles;structure heights are anticipated to range from 70 to 90 feet for the single-circuit
structures to 75 to 115 feet for the double-circuit structures. Xcel Energy is requesting a route width
of approximately 400 feet,or 200 feet either side of the proposed alignment shown in the
Application maps. The anticipated right-of-way for the new transmission line would be 75 feet.
Xcel Energy estimates the total Project cost to be approximately$5.3 million dollars.
Energy Facility Permitting(EFP) staff is tasked with conducting environmental review of
applications for high-voltage transmission line route permits. The intent of the environmental
review process is to inform the public,the applicant,and decision-makers about potential impacts
and possible mitigation measures for a proposed high-voltage transmission line project.
This environmental assessment(EA) covers the environmental review requirements in accordance
with the Scoping Decision Document for this EA,and as outlined in Minnesota Rules 7850,for the
' proposed project and route permit application as follows:
Section 1.0-Introduction
' Section 2.0—Describes the regulatory framework associated with the project,which includes
information on the certificate of need criteria,route permit requirements,and the alternative
' permitting processes.
Section 3.0—Provides a detailed description of the Project as proposed by Xcel Energy and the
' Baker Park Reserve Route Alternative. Alternatives proposed,but not carried forward for detailed
analysis are also described here.
' Section 4.0—Describes the methods used when constructing the transmission line along with clean-
up and restoration,maintenance procedures,and utility rights-of-way acquisition.
' Environmental Assessment
PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 1
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Section 5.0—Details the potential impacts of the proposed project to human and natural I
environments and identifies measures that could be implemented to avoid,minimize or mitigate any
potential adverse impacts.
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Section 6.0—Lists additional permits that may be required for the proposed project.
Section 7.0—Provides a comparison of the routes analyzed in this EA.
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Section 8.0—References
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Much of the information used in this EA is derived from documents prepared by Xcel Energy.
These include Xcel Energy's Route Permit Application for the Orono substation Replacement and New 115
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kV Transmission Line Project,June 7,2011,along with the emails and requests for information.
Discussion of electromagnetic field issues came primarily from the white paper developed by the
Interagency Task Force led by the Minnesota department of Health (MDH),the National Institute
for Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS),and the World Health Organization (WHO).
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Additional information comes from earlier EFP environmental review documents in similar dockets,
other state agencies such as the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR) and the
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). Section 8.0 provides a listing of additional references
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used in the preparation of this EA.
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Environmental Assessment I
PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 2
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' 2 REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
In Minnesota,no person may construct a high-voltage transmission line without a route permit from
the Public Utilities Commission under Minnesota Statute 216E.03,subdivision 2. A high-voltage
transmission line is defined as a conductor of electric energy and associated facilities designed for
and capable of operation at a nominal voltage of 100 kV or more and is greater than 1,500 feet in
I ' length. Associated facilities of the transmission line include buildings,equipment,and other physical
structures that are necessary to the operation of a high-voltage transmission line.
' 2.1 Certificate of Need
Pursuant to Minnesota Statute 216B.243,subdivision 2,"No large energy facility shall be sited or
' constructed in Minnesota without the issuance of a certificate of need by the Commission." In the
case of a high-voltage transmission line,a large energy facility is defined as, (1) any high-voltage
transmission line with a capacity of 200 kV or more and greater than 1,500 feet in length,and (2) any
high-voltage transmission line with a capacity of 100 kV or more with more than ten miles of its
length in Minnesota or that crosses a state line.
The project as proposed,a 115 kV transmission line with a length of less than one mile,does not
' qualify as a large energy facility and a certificate of need is not required.
2.2 Alternative Permitting Process
' The proposed project is eligible for consideration under the alternative permitting process
(Minnesota Rule 7850.2800) of the Power Plant Siting Act(Minnesota Statute 216E.04). The
' alternative permitting process is shorter than the full permitting procedures and does not require the
applicant to propose alternative sites or routes to the preferred site or route,but does require the
applicant to disclose rejected route alternatives and an explanation of why they were rejected.
2.3 Route Permit Application
The applicant filed a route permit application with the Commission for the Project on June 7,2011.
' The Commission accepted the application as complete in an order issued on June 30,2011. Under
the alternative permitting process,the Commission has six months to issue a route permit from the
date a route permit application is deemed complete. The Commission may extend this time limit for
up to three months for just cause or upon agreement of the applicant.
' 2.4 Public Information and
Scoping Meeting
' EFP staff held a public information and environmental assessment scoping meeting on August 10,
2011,at the Orono City Hall in Orono,Minnesota,as required by Minnesota Rule 7850.3500. The
meeting provided the public an opportunity to learn about the proposed project and the state's high-
voltage transmission line route permitting process,review the applicant's route permit application,
ask questions,and submit comments.
' A court reporter was present at the public meeting and transcribed questions asked and comments
made by the public,as well as responses from EFP staff and Xcel Energy (Department of
Commerce,2011a). Approximately seven members of the public attended the meeting.
A public comment period,ending on August 26,2011,also provided the public an opportunity to
submit comments on issues and alternative routes for consideration in the scope of the EA. Four
' Environmental Assessment
PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 3
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comment letters were received by the close of the comment period (Department of Commerce, '
2011b). Xcel Energy also submitted a comment letter after the close of the public comment period
addressing alternative routes and substation sites proposed during the scoping period (Xcel Energy,
2011b). After consideration of the public comments the deputy commissioner of the Department
of Commerce issued the scope of the EA on September 12,2011. The EA scoping decision
document is included in Appendix A.
2.5 Environmental Assessment
An EA must be prepared for all high-voltage transmission projects being reviewed under the
alternative permitting process. The procedures EFP staff must follow in preparing the EA are
described in Minnesota Rule 7850.3700. The EA contains information on the human and
environmental impacts of the proposed project as identified in the scoping decision document. It
also addresses required methods to mitigate such impacts for all routes considered. The EA is the
only state environmental review document required to be prepared for this project.
Upon completion of the EA,continuing procedural steps include: providing notice on the
availability of the EA,scheduling and providing notice of a public hearing in the area where the
project is located,and bringing the matter to the Commission for a final decision. An example of a
route permit issued by the Commission for a high-voltage transmission line is provided in
Appendix D.
Copies of the route permit application and other documents relevant to the process are available for '
viewing and downloading on the Commission website at:
http://energyfacilities.puc.state.mn.us/Docket.html?Id=32082 or the eDockets website at:
https://www.edockets.state.mn.us/EFiling/search.jsp,enter"11" for Year and"223" for Number,
under search criteria.
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Environmental Assessment
PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 4
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t3 PROPOSED PROJECT
Xcel Energy proposes to construct 0.6-miles of 115 kV overhead transmission line. The proposed
route can be divided into two segments. The first segment consists of approximately 0.4 miles of
new double-circuit 115 kV transmission line. The second segment would move approximately 0.2
miles of single circuit 115 kV transmission line from its existing alignment on two residential parcels
' in the Huntington Farm neighborhood onto property owned by the Hunt Farm Home Owners
Association and adjacent to the Burlington Northern and Santa Fe (BNSF) railroad.
' 3.1 Purpose and Need
Xcel Energy states in its route permit application that Project is proposed to improve local and
' system reliability,reduce the risk of overloads,and allow for additional load growth in the future.
The Project is one of several transmission upgrades planned in the west metro area in response to
historical and anticipated load growth. As a result of load growth,many 69 kV facilities are being
upgraded to 115 kV.
' The current Orono Substation is a single 22 MVA bank transformer distribution substation supplied
by 69 kV transmission sources. The Orono Substation is currently fed at 69 kV from two
' directions: Dickinson and Crow River from the west and Medina from the east. Planned upgrades
anticipate conversion of the existing 69 kV line between the Medina and Plymouth Substations to
115 kV(Xcel Energy and Great River Energy,2011). This conversion will require removal of the
' 115/69 kV transformer at the Medina Substation due to the substation footprint. The loss of the
115/69 kV transformer means that the eastern source feeding the Orono Substation will be lost,
resulting in a radial feed (only one source) into the substation. Radial loads have lower reliability
' than those with two sources (Xcel Energy,personal communication,November 4,2011).
Due to the loss of the 115/69 kV connection at Medina,there is not enough capacity on the 69 kV
' system to support the load in the area. If the Crow River 69 kV line were to be taken out of service,
either through a system fault or inadvertent breaker operation,the result would be low voltages and
system overloads. Xcel Energy planning criteria require voltages on the transmission system to stay
' at 90 percent of nominal voltage and lines are required to be loaded to less than 100 percent of their
emergency capacity after a contingency. Leaving the Orono Substation on the 69 kV system would
violate both of these Xcel Energy criteria (Ibid.).
3.2 Project Location
The proposed project would be located in the northeastern portion of the city of Orono in
' Hennepin County,Minnesota. Both the Xcel Energy Proposed Route and the Baker Park Reserve
Route Alternative are located in Township118N,Range 23W,Sections 29, 30,and 32. A depiction
of the route is shown in Figure 1.
' 3.3 Route Descriptions
General overview maps of the routes and detailed depictions of each route are shown in Figure 1
' and in Appendix B. Descriptions of the routes analyzed in this EA are provided below.
Xcel Energy Proposed Route
' Xcel Energy proposes to construct a new 0.4-mile long 115 kV overhead transmission line to be
located in the northeastern part of the city of Orono. As described in the route permit application
' Environmental Assessment
PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 5
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Figure 1: General Vicinity Map 1
Orono 115 k\"Transmission Project 1
Figure I:General\'icinil Map
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Environmental Assessment 1
PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 6
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' the new transmission line route would exit an expanded Orono Substation,head north for 866 feet
as a double circuit line and then turn to the northwest along the southern edge of the BNSF railroad
right-of-way for approximately 1,205 feet to the existing 115 kV transmission Line 0831. At this
' point, the Project would replace three existing transmission structures and approximately 1,030 feet
of single circuit 115 transmission Line 0831with two new structures and approximately 1,095 feet of
single circuit 115 kV transmission line,re-routing the existing line off of two residential parcels and
onto adjacent Hunt Farm Home Owners Association property adjacent to the BNSF railroad. A
' new double-circuit corner structure would connect the single-and double-circuit portions of the
project. The Project would also install fiber optic ground wire along the entire length of the Project
(Xcel Energy,June 7,2011).
' Xcel Energy proposed the route because it believed that the proposed route best met the following
primary objectives:
• Maximize use of existing Xcel Energy Property;
• Minimize land use impacts by routing along transportation corridors and existing
distribution and transmission lines to reduce the amount of new right-of-way required;
' • Minimize land use impacts by routing along natural corridors, field line,and property lines,
where an existing corridor(e.g. fence line,drainage ditch,access road) is present;
• Minimize use of new right-of-way;
' • Minimize impacts to residences;
• Minimize impacts to public resources,including Baker Park Reserve;and
' • Minimize impacts to environmental and sensitive resources. (Ibid.)
Baker Park Reserve Route Alternative
' The application identified two routes that crossed portions of the Baker Park Reserve;these were
ultimately rejected by Xcel Energy in favor of the Proposed Route. During the scoping process,
members of the public requested further evaluation of a route alternative that minimized impacts to
' private property by shifting the route burden to public lands. The Baker Park Reserve Alternative to
be evaluated in the EA is the same as Alternative Route 2 described in Appendix G of the Route
Permit Application. The Baker Park Reserve Alternative follows the same route as the Proposed
' Route for the first 866 feet out of the substation,but continues northward for approximately 326
feet across the BNSF Railroad,U.S.Highway 12,and an existing Xcel Energy distribution line.
Upon exiting U.S. Highway 12 right-of-way, the route enters the Three Rivers Park District's Baker
Park Reserve. From here the route continues westerly approximately 974 feet across Baker Park
' Reserve property connecting to existing Xcel Energy 115 kV transmission Line 0831. The route
would then cross back over to the south side of U.S. Highway 12. As with the Xcel Energy
Proposed Route described above this alternative would also include the relocation of transmission
' line 0831. The total length of this alternative with the relocation of Transmission Line 0831 is
approximately 0.6 miles.
3.4 Alternatives Proposed but not Evaluated in Detail
During the scoping process, four site alternatives to expanding the Orono Substation were proposed
' (Department of Commerce,September 7,2011b). None of the proposed alternative substation sites
was chosen for further evaluation in the EA.
' Environmental Assessment
PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 7
• Alternative Substation Site 1: This site is comprised of three small parcels owned by the
Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) between U.S.Highway 12 and Sixth
Avenue South and is zoned the same as Xcel Energy's current substation site. These parcels
are not large enough for development of the proposed substation of 1.6 acres and additional
area necessary for setbacks. The actual developable area of these parcels is likely to be
further reduced based on observed wetlands on the parcels and possible additional setbacks
or buffers from U.S. Highway 12. The estimated length of transmission line from this site is
approximately 0.54 miles,or approximately 0.15 miles more than Xcel Energy's proposed
route.
• Alternative Substation Site 2: This site is comprised of three parcels owned by the Park Gun
Club. This site is zoned as "Rural Residential,one home to 2 acres." The Park Gun Club is
a nonconforming use in that location and is prevented from making any changes to its
current use,including the layout of the shooting range. It does not appear that there is
sufficient space within the parcel to locate both the gun club with its current layout and the
substation,resulting in a likely displacement of Gun Club. Orono zoning does not permit
gun clubs within the city;the club would not be able to re-locate within Orono. Anecdotal
information indicates that gun clubs are very difficult to locate within metropolitan areas.
The estimated length of transmission line from this site is approximately 0.76 miles,or '
approximately 0.4 miles more than Xcel Energy's proposed route.
• Alternative Site 3: This site is owned by the city of Orono. The site is zoned as "RR-1B," '
allowing one home per two acres.This 39 acre property was donated to the city in 2000 for
use as a passive natural environmental park;the donation specified restrictive covenants
limiting improvements to the park to allow only for passive recreational uses. The city's
2030 Land Use Plan identifies this site as "Park,Recreation,and Open Space." The parcel
is bounded to the north by several residential lots. Routing would require avoidance of the
cloverleaf intersection of U.S. Highway 12 and Wayzata Boulevard. The estimated length of
transmission line from this site is approximately 0.5 miles,or approximately 0.1 miles longer
than Xcel Energy's proposed route.
• Alternative Site 4: This privately-owned site is zoned as"RR-1B," allowing one home per two
acres. The site is identified on the City's 2030 Land Use Plan as "High Density Residential."
Depending upon the location of a substation on this parcel,use of this site would require
approximately 6,500 feet of new double-circuit 115 kV transmission line,or approximately
3,400 feet more than the Proposed Route. As with Alternative Site 3,use of this site would
require routing around the cloverleaf intersection of U.S.Highway 12 and Wayzata
Boulevard. The estimated length of transmission line from this site is approximately 1.31
miles,or approximately 0.9 miles more than Xcel Energy's proposed route.
All of the alternative substation sites would also require acquisition of new land by Xcel Energy for '
the substation and easements for additional transmission line to meet the purpose and need of the
Project. Although no routes for the additional transmission to the alternate substation sites were
developed,it appears that the alternate sites would require approximately 800 to 4,900 feet of
additional double circuit 115 kV transmission compared to Xcel Energy's proposed route.
Development of a new substation site would also require re-location of two existing electric
distribution lines in addition to the transmission,resulting in additional impacts to new landowners.
Environmental Assessment '
PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 8
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IFor the above reasons,the Department concluded that further evaluation of these alternative routes
would not assist in the Commission's final decision on the route permit application.
I3.5 Route Width
Xcel Energy is requesting a 400 foot route width for the entire length of the proposed transmission
I line route. Xcel Energy has identified the extent of the requested route as 200 feet on each side of
the proposed route alignment for construction of new structures and conductors,as well as on each
side of the existing Line 0831 from Structure 076 to Structure 078 for replacement of Structures 076,
I 077,and 078 and for replacement of existing structures on residential properties. Xcel Energy also
requests a route of up to 120 feet on each side of the proposed Orono Substation expansion area
(Xcel Energy,personal communication,November 22,2011).
I3.6 Right-of-Way
As indicated in the route permit application,the proposed transmission line will generally require a
I right-of-way(ROW) of up to 75 feet(37.5 feet on either side of centerline). Xcel Energy indicates
in its application that the Project may be designed to fit within a narrower right-of-way in locations
with existing rights-of-way or other engineering or site considerations.
Xcel Energy indicates in its Route Permit Application that where the Project parallels a roadway or
railroad,Xcel Energy anticipates placing poles approximately 5 to 10 feet within private ROW,
I overlapping approximately 30 feet of anticipated right-of-way with road or railroad right-of-way. As
discussed in Section 5.8, compliance with Orono's Shoreland Overlay District would require that
poles be placed a minimum of 30 feet outside of road ROW;this setback provision does not apply
Ito railroad ROW.
Approximately 1,795 feet of the proposed route parallels the BNSF Railroad. Approximately 590
I feet of the Baker Park Reserve Alternative Route parallels the BNSF Railroad,and approximately
1,205 feet parallels U.S. Highway 12 (Xcel Energy,personal communication,October 17,2011).
Xcel Energy has been in conversation with BNSF since the fall of 2010 to discuss routing options of
I the Project. Current design anticipates placement of poles five feet outside the BNSF right-of-way
on the south side of the tracks. Xcel Energy applied to BNSF for a wire crossing for the Project in
April,2011. BNSF issued a Certificate of Occupancy for a rebuild of the existing crossing between
Structures 076-1 and 076 and for the paralleling of transmission and railroad rights-of-way on June
I24,2011 (Xcel Energy,personal communication, October 13,2011).
When the transmission line would be located on private property in areas such as open fields or
I scattered forest land,an easement for the entire ROW (up to 75 feet)would be acquired from the
affected landowner(s). The 866 feet of both routes that is located on the Orono substation site
owned by Xcel Energy would not require acquisition of new right-of-way. Xcel Energy anticipates
I that approximately 2,270 feet of new ROW would need to be acquired to construct the Project (Xcel
Energy,June 7,2011).
I Table 1,below, summarizes the type of right-of-way followed by each of the two routes being
evaluated.
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Table 1: Percent and Type of Right-of-Way Followed
Existing.Right-of-Way Type and Miles Followed
Route BNSF RR U.S. New/Cross Country Total Length
Highway 12
Proposed 0.34 miles, N/A 0.25 miles (0.16 miles,866 feet 0.59 miles
Route 57 percent on Xcel Energy Property)
Baker Park N/A 0.25 miles 0.16 miles (all on Xcel Property) 0.41 miles
Reserve
Alternative
3.7 Conductors
High-voltage transmission line circuits generally consist of three phases,each at the end of a separate
insulator,and physically supported by structures or poles. A phase consists of one or more
conductors (single,double,or bundled). A typical conductor is a cable consisting of aluminum wires
stranded around a core of steel wires. Shield wires are strung above the phases to prevent damage
from potential lightning strikes. The shield wire may also include a fiber optic cable that allows for
substation protection equipment to communicate with other substation terminals on the line.
The phases for this project would be constructed with three single steel supported aluminum
conductors (ACSS) which each consist of a single conductor comprised of seven steel core strands
surrounded by 26 outer aluminum strands. The separate conductors are 795,000 circular mils or
approximately 1.092 to 1.139 inches in diameter. The ground to conductor height depends on
overall topography and man-made obstacles and will meet or exceed the minimum clearance
requirements of the National Electric Safety Code (NESC). Two 3/861 inch diameter extra high
strength steel,seven strand shield wires will be installed to protect from lightning strike. Ultimately,
the transmission line would be three-phase, 60 hertz (Hz),alternating current line.
3.8 Structures
Xcel Energy proposes to use a combination of three different structure types (Table 2). All of the
proposed structures would be single pole structures constructed of galvanized or weathering steel
with heights of between 70 and 115 feet,depending upon the structure type and location (Xcel
Energy,June 7,2011,and Xcel Energy,personal communication,October 13,2011). All structures
are anticipated to be self-supporting;Xcel Energy does not anticipate use of structures requiring guy
wires (Xcel Energy,personal communication,November 4,2011). Examples of the structure
proposed structure types are shown in Figure 2.
1
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I
I
ITable 2: Transmission Structure Specifications
I
Span
Structure
Structure Structure Estimated Structure
Foundation Base Between
Line Type Type Material Location Diameter Diameter Height Structures
I (feet) (inches) (feet) (feet)
Single Pole
Galvanized
I 115 kV Vertical Replaces
Steel,or 36-42 angle 300—500
Single- Configuration Structure 5-7 70-90
Weathering structures
Circuit with Post 077
Steel
I Insulators
Galvanized
115 kV Single Pole, Replaces
Steel,or 300—500
Single- Cross Arm Y- Structures 6-8 70-90
I
Weathering 36-48
Circuit Frame 076 and 078
Steel
115/115 kV Galvanized New
I
Double-
Single Pole Steel or Structures 300—500
Davit Arm Weathering 076-1 to
6-8 36-48 75-115
Circuit
Steel 076-5
I 115/115 kV
Double
Single Pole Galvanized Alternate
Steel or Structures 300—500
Circuit with 6-8 36-48 75- 115
Davit Arm Weathering 076-1&
I Distribution
Underbuild Steel 076-2
Source: Xcel Energy,June 7,2011;Xcel Energy,personal communication, October 13, 2011
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PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 11
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I
Figure 2: Proposed Structure Types
I
I
I
�. •S
r--
1
i -s .''l
I
1
1
Double-Circuit 115/115 kV Structure
Vertical Corner or Deadend Structure
I
11110 : 1
0 o'e
In •
ii‘ii ,
I
Z.
I
'd.
115 kV HP Single-Circulit 115 kV Double-Circuit Steel Davit Arm
I
115 kV Y-Frame Structure
115 kV Single-Circuit Steel Davit Structure with Underbulld
Arm Structure
I
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I
I3.9 Associated Facilities and Substations
The project would include replace the existing 69 kV Orono Substation with an expanded 115 kV
I substation at the same location. The Project would also modify Xcel Energy's existing transmission
line 0831 by replacing a 1,030-foot single-circuit section with a new 1,020- foot single-circuit section.
The Project would install a 2,160-foot segment of new double circuit 115 kV/115 kV transmission
U
line between the Orono Substation and transmission line 0831. The replacement substation will not
have 69 kV transmission equipment;as a result GRE's existing 69 kV Line BD will be re-routed
around the replacement substation (Xcel Energy,June 7,2011).
I3.10 Cost
As provided in the route permit application,transmission line costs would vary depending on the
I structure type,the height and diameter and composition of the structures,the number of structures
per mile,labor and hardware costs. The line construction costs include the cost of structures,
insulators,conductors,and labor as well as any costs of equipment that will be used to construct the
I new line,but do not include right-of-way acquisition costs. Construction costs also include
modifications to the Orono Substation. The estimated project costs are summarized in Table 3.
I
Table 3: Estimated Project Costs
Route Proposed Route Baker Park Reserve
Alternative
New Transmission Line $1.2 million $1.3 million
IOrono Substation Removal and Replacement $4.1 million $4.1 million
Total Project Cost $5.3 million $5.4 million
I
Source:Xcel Energy,June 7,2011;Xcel Energy,personal communication,October 13,2011.
Xcel Energy indicates that operating and maintenance costs for the transmission line will be nominal
I for several years, since the transmission line will be new and would require minimal vegetation
maintenance. Xcel Energy's typical annual operating and maintenance costs, for 115 kV
transmission lines in its Upper Midwest system,incorporating line and inspections,vegetation
I management,and maintenance and repairs as needed, are approximately$300 to$500 per mile of
transmission line right-of-way. Transmission line inspections are typically performed by airplane or
helicopter on a regular basis. Inspections of substations and other equipment are generally
I performed on an annual or semi-annual basis depending on the type of equipment. Maintenance
and repairs to substations are performed on an as-needed basis with costs varying from substation to
substation (Xcel Energy,2011a).
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4 FACILITY CONSTRUCTION
Project construction would begin after the appropriate federal,state,and local permits and approvals
are issued. Xcel Energy would need to acquire property rights-of-way,complete soil investigations, '
and develop the final detailed design. The precise timing of construction would take into account
the required permits and their conditions, system loading issues,existing transmission line outage
restrictions,construction constraints,weather,road restrictions,mitigation or impact minimization,
and availability of work force and materials. Details regarding Xcel Energy's construction practices
are provided in Section 5.0 of the Route Permit Application.
As indicated in the route permit application,Xcel Energy designs and constructs transmission lines
following construction and mitigation methods based on past experiences and in compliance with
permit conditions,industry standards,and environmental factors. These practices address right-of-
way
clearance,staging,erecting transmission structures,and stringing transmission lines. Practices
to mitigate potential construction impacts are established based on permit requirements,
construction schedules,geology and topography,maintenance guidelines,inspection procedures,and
encountering of sensitive environments or species and are discussed in Section 5 of this document.
Xcel Energy states that the proposed transmission line would be designed to meet or exceed local
and state codes,the NESC,North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) requirements
and Xcel Energy standards. This includes standards relating to clearances to ground,clearance to
crossing utilities,clearance to buildings,clearances over roadways,and right-of-way widths.
4.1 Utility Right-of-Way Easement Acquisition
Should the Commission select a route and issue a route permit,Xcel Energy's easement acquisition
process would begin early in the detailed design phase. The Commission is not involved in the
easement acquisition process.
Two portions of the Project would not require acquisition of new rights-of-way. The reconstruction '
between structures 076 and 076-1 over the BNSF railroad and U.S.Highway 12 would follow
existing rights-of-way. The replacement substation and the first 866 feet of the transmission line
would be constructed on property currently owned by Xcel Energy.
Where the transmission line would require new right-of-way,the easement acquisition process
begins early in the detailed design phase. Utilities typically acquire easement rights,not fee title from
landowners to accommodate transmission lines. The easement acquisition process can typically be
broken down into the following steps:
Title examination. Following identification of a route in a route permit,Xcel Energy will perform
a public records search of the land involved in the project to identify all persons and entities that
may have a legal interest in the real estate upon which the Project will be built. A title report is then
developed for each parcel to determine the owner(s) of record of the property,and to gather
information regarding easements,liens,restrictions,encumbrances,and other conditions of record.
Initial contact. A right-of-way representative contacts each property owner or the property
owner's representative along the route identified in the route permit to discuss the Project and how
it may impact each parcel and also seeks information about any construction concerns specific to the
landowner.
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Initial transmission line survey. Xcel Energy provides notification to property owners along the
permitted route requesting permission for survey crews to conduct preliminary survey work on the
' property. The survey is performed to establish the right-of-way boundaries,locate natural and man-
made features along and within the right-of-way,establish the transmission centerline and determine
' elevations for use during detailed design. Permission may also be requested at this time to obtain
soil samples to assess soil conditions and to determine appropriate foundation design.
During the initial survey the survey crew,with permission of the property owner,may place
surveyor's stakes to mark the tentative or anticipated structure locations,thereby allowing the
landowner to see where the structures may be located on the property. The right-of-way boundary
may also be delineated showing the area that is required for safe operation of the transmission line.
' Easement acquisition. Xcel Energy collects land value data and based on the impact of the
easement or purchase to the market value of each parcel develops a fair market value offer. The
offer of compensation is based on the specific attributes of each property,the amount of easement
area,design of the transmission line,and other factors,as appropriate.
The right-of-way agent will then contact the property owner(s) to present the easement offer and
discuss the amount of just compensation for the rights to construct,operate,access,and maintain
the transmission facilities within the easement area. The landowner is then allowed time to consider
the offer and to present any additional material that the property owner believes is relevant to
determining the property's value.Almost any aspect of the easement is negotiable (Minnesota
Department of Commerce,2011c)
' Eminent domain. If a negotiated settlement cannot be reached,it may be necessary for the
applicant to file for eminent domain,pursuant to Minnesota Statute Chapter 117. In the eminent
domain process,a judicial proceeding would commence to determine the scope of the applicant's
' easement and an independent commission would determine the value of the easement taken. Under
Minnesota Statute 117.036,subdivision 2(a),Xcel Energy,as the acquiring authority,must obtain at
' least one appraisal for the property proposed to be acquired if it intends to use eminent domain
proceedings to acquire a right-of-way. If the landowner desires a second opinion on the fair market
value of the property, the landowner may have an appraisal made and receive reimbursement from
the applicant per Minnesota Statute 117.036 subdivision 2(b).
Pre-construction owner contact. Prior to construction,the right-of-way agent would contact the
owner of each parcel along the route to discuss the construction schedule and any additional
' requirements not discussed during the time of the easement acquisition. To ensure safe
construction and operation,special consideration may be needed for fences,crops,or livestock. In
each case the right-of-way agent assists in coordinating the process.
4.2 Transmission Line Structures
' Construction of the transmission line would require the acquisition and preparation of rights-of-way
for the transmission line,establishment of work and staging areas,installation of new single pole
tangent and specialty structures,removal and reconstruction of portions of existing transmission
lines,installation of safety structures at road and other utility crossings.
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I
Construction equipment typically used on a transmission project would include tree removal '
equipment,mowers,cranes,backhoes,digger-derrick line trucks,track-mounted drill rigs,dump
trucks, front end loaders,bucket trucks,bulldozers, flatbed tractor-trailers, flatbed trucks,pickup
trucks,concrete trucks and various trailers.
Transmission line structures are generally designed for installation at existing grades. However,
along areas with more than 10 percent slope,working areas may have to be graded level or fill would
be brought in to create working pads. If the landowner permits,Xcel Energy prefers to leave the
leveled working pads in place for future maintenance activities,as necessary. If the landowner does
not agree,Xcel Energy will grade the site back to its original condition and any imported fill is
removed from the area.
Typically existing roads or trails that run parallel or perpendicular to the proposed route are used to
access the actual transmission line right-of-way. Where use of private field roads or trails is
necessary,permission from the property owner would be obtained by Xcel Energy prior to access.
In some cases,new access roads or temporary lay down areas may be required due to problematic
structure locations,when no current access is available,or existing access is inadequate for the heavy
equipment used in construction. Should these areas fall outside the right-of-way,temporary
easements would be arranged with the affected landowner. These temporary easements are not
typically part of the route permit issued by the Commission for high-voltage transmission lines.
Staging areas are often established for a project to provide a location to deliver and store materials
required for construction. Xcel Energy anticipates using the Orono Substation site or other nearby
Xcel Energy substation sites as staging areas for the Project. If needed,additional temporary staging
areas outside the transmission line right-of-way or at non-Xcel Energy sites will be obtained through
rental agreements.
Transmission line structures are typically delivered to their staked location or to a designated staging
area depending on delivery and contractor availability. If the poles are delivered to a staked site,they
are typically designed for the specific site location at which they are to be constructed and are placed
along the right-of-way out of the dear zone of any adjacent highways or designed pathways and
marked for visibility.
One of the structures is considered to be a"tangent" structure,or in a straight line with both its
adjacent structures. Xcel Energy anticipates that this structure would be direct embedded. Direct
embedding would generally require an excavation of a three to four foot diameter hole at least 15
feet deep or greater,depending on soil conditions and other factors. The poles are typically framed
with insulators and hardware on the ground and then lifted and placed in the hole via a bucket truck
or a crane,depending on the weight of the structure. The poles would be backfilled with native soils
or crushed rock depending on soil and design conditions. In lowland areas,a galvanized steel
culvert may be also inserted for pole stability due to poor soil capacity. Any excess soil would be
thin spread or removed from the site as required.
Seven of the eight proposed structures for the Project are angle structures and would be set on
drilled pier concrete foundations to support the higher stress. The drilled pier would typically have a
diameter of six to eight feet and typically require an excavation depth of approximately 25 feet,
depending on soil conditions and design requirements. The excavation is filled with concrete and a
concrete foundation is set,the pole or structure is then bolted to the foundation.
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I
tSpecial construction techniques to minimize impacts to environmentally sensitive areas,such as
wetlands,are discussed in Section 5.0 of this document. Xcel Energy indicates in its route permit
I application that environmentally sensitive areas and wetland areas may require special construction
techniques beyond what is described above.
I 4.3 Conductors
Once the structures have been erected,conductors and shield wires are installed by establishing
stringing setup areas within the right-of-way. Stringing operations require brief access to each
I structure to secure the conductors wire to the insulators or the shield wire to shield wire clamps
once final sag is established. These stringing setup areas are typically located every two miles along
the project right-of-way. The wires are pulled with a rope lead that connects to every structure
Ithrough a dolly attached at the insulator/clamp location.
Temporary guard or clearance poles are installed at crossings to provide adequate clearance over
I other utilities,streets,roads,highways,railroads,or other obstructions. Necessary notifications are
made or permit requirements are followed,to mitigate any concerns with traffic flow or operations
of other utilities.
I4.4 Orono Substation
Replacement of the existing 69 kV Orono Substation with an expanded 115 kV Orono Substation
I would take place in the southwest portion of the 16 acre parcel owned by Xcel Energy. The site of
the expanded 115 substation will encompass the existing 69kV site. No additional land would need
to be acquired or rights-of-way obtained for the proposed substation work. A schematic of the
Ireplacement substation is included in Appendix B,Figure B-5.
Xcel Energy will grade a total area of approximately 1.6 acres, for the substation and re-aligned
I access road to ensure both a stable base for the substation equipment and proper drainage and
runoff control (Xcel Energy,personal communication,October 31,2011). Based on preliminary
grading plans for the substation site,Xcel Energy estimates that grading would require
Iapproximately 15,700 cubic yards of cut and,depending upon the dimensions of a berm that may be
constructed at the substation site,between 3,800 and 6,100 cubic yards of fill (Xcel Energy,personal
communication,November 18,2011). A stormwater pond will be installed in accordance with the
Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPP) prepared for the Project. During grading,the
I driveway will also be rerouted to end at the entrance to the replacement substation. Following
grading a perimeter fence would be installed to contain the substation equipment.After installation
of the fence, concrete foundations would be placed to support the substation equipment and gravel
I laid throughout the fenced area. After the surface area is prepared, substation components would be
delivered on tractor-trailer trucks and installed on their foundations.
I The termination structure for Great River Energy's 69 kV transmission line will be removed,but
switchgear from the existing 69 kV substation will be reused in the replacement substation. During
construction a mobile substation will be installed to ensure that service is maintained until the 115
IkV source is energized.
Transmission facilities at the replacement Orono Substation will consist of:
I • A new 115-13.8 kV substation with a 28 mega volt ampere (MVA, 118-14.3 transformer;
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PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 17
• Two 115 kV line terminations,each with a motor—operated transmission line switch with a '
quick-break line dropping whip;
• One single-phase coupling capacitor voltage transformer with carrier accessories;
• A 2000 amp wave trap with line tuner;and
• Three 76 kV maximum continuous operating voltage station class surge arresters.
Xcel Energy has or will prepare the required MX/PPP and obtain a National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System(NPDES)/State Disposal System (SDS) construction stormwater permit from
the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). Erosion control methods,described in Section
5.11 will be utilized to minimize runoff during substation construction.
Upon completion of construction activities,Xcel Energy would restore the site. Post-construction
reclamation activities include the removing and disposing of debris,dismantling all temporary
facilities (including staging areas),employing appropriate erosion control measures,and reseeding
areas disturbed by construction activities with vegetation similar to that which was removed.
4.5 Relocation of Line 0831
The Project would relocate a 1,030-foot portion of Xcel Energy Transmission Line 0831 to
HFHOA property.
Clearing of trees and vegetation within the existing ROW will be conducted as needed for removing
the transmission structures,conductors and related equipment. Xcel Energy will minimize access
area and removal work areas to only that needed for the work. Xcel Energy has indicated that their
intention is to conduct the removal work during frozen ground conditions if possible to minimize
disturbance to soil. In wet areas,Xcel Energy may also install construction mats to access the
removal locations (Xcel Energy,personal communication,November 11,2011).
Xcel Energy will remove above and below ground sections of the transmission structures in the
planned removal area. Below ground sections of the transmission structures will be removed from
the ground. Supports and guying above ground will be removed with the transmission structures
and underground sections will be removed. While not expected for this Project,if concrete
foundations are encountered at structures to be removed,the structure above the concrete base will
be removed and then the concrete foundation removed to approximately four feet below ground
surface. Holes,ruts or other areas disturbed by the removal work will be backfilled with soil and
seeded to re-establish vegetation.
Construction of the relocated portion of this line would follow transmission construction '
procedures described in Sections 4.2 and 4.3 of this document. Mitigation strategies for both line
removal and construction are discussed in Section 5.0 of this document.
4.6 Great River Energy 69 kV Transmission Facilities
The Project will remove 69 kV transmission facilities from the substation and the GRE 69 kV
transmission line will be re-routed around the replacement substation. Xcel Energy and GRE will
coordinate to modify the 115 kV remote end relay settings at Crow Rivers and Medina Substations.
The 69 kV termination structure and associated foundations will be removed and a short segment of
69 kV transmission line will be constructed around the replacement substation. All work on the
GRE facilities for this project will be completed on the 16 acre parcel owned by Xcel Energy.
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4.7 Clean-up and Restoration
' Construction areas would be disturbed during the normal course of work,which can take several
weeks in any one location. As construction on each parcel is completed,disturbed areas would be
restored to their original condition. Practices to mitigate potential construction impacts would
' follow permit requirements and be based on construction schedules,geology and topography,
maintenance guidelines,inspection procedures,and presence of sensitive environments or species.
' Upon completion of construction,disturbed areas would be restored to their original condition to
the maximum extent practicable. If damage has occurred to fences or drain tiles,Xcel Energy would
reimburse the landowner(s) for the damages sustained (Xcel Energy,June 7,2011). Xcel Energy
may employ an outside contractor to restore the damaged property to as near its original condition
as is possible. Areas with significant soil compaction and disturbance from construction activities
along the proposed transmission line route may require assistance in re-establishing the vegetation
' stratum and controlling soil erosion. Construction and post-construction reclamation activities
would include but are not limited to removing and disposing of debris (including personal liter);
dismantling staging areas;restoring temporary workspaces,access roads,abandoned right-of-way
' and other public or private lands affected by construction of the transmission line;employing
erosion control,such as silt fences,hay bales,seed blankets,or hydro seeding;and hand-planting
disturbed areas with native vegetation.
Landowners would be contacted by an Xcel Energy representative at the close of construction
activities to determine whether any damage has occurred as a result of the project. Areas damaged
during construction activities will be restored to their pre-construction condition to the extent
possible or Xcel will reimburse the landowner for damages sustained that are not repaired. Upon
completion of construction cleanup and restoration of damaged areas,landowners would notify
Xcel Energy of any outstanding construction damage that has not been remedied.
HVTL Route Permits issued by the Commission require the permittee to notify the Commission in
writing 60 days after completion of all restoration activities and also require the permittee to
compensate landowners for any yard/landscape, soil compaction,drain tile,or other property
damages that may occur during construction.
4.8 Maintenance Procedures
Transmission infrastructure has few mechanical elements and is designed and constructed to
withstand weather events that are normally encountered. Although infrequent,transmission lines
' are taken out of service by protective relay equipment when a fault is sensed on the system or for
scheduled maintenance outages. As a result,Xcel Energy estimates the average annual availability of
transmission infrastructure exceeds 90 percent.
1 Routine maintenance and inspections are performed over the life of the facility to ensure its
continued integrity. Annual inspections of the transmission facilities are usually done by aerial
' means. Periodic access to the transmission line rights-of-way and substations would be required to
perform on-ground inspections and conduct routine maintenance or repairs. Inspections would be
limited to the acquired right-of-way and areas where obstructions or terrain require access off the
' easement.
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The transmission line rights-of-way are managed to remove vegetation that has the potential to '
interfere with the operation and maintenance of the line. The applicant would conduct vegetation
surveys and remove undesired vegetation that may interfere with the operation of the transmission
line. Typical vegetation maintenance for a 115 kV transmission line is on a three to seven year cycle
dependent on vegetation growth and weather events. Vegetation management generally includes a
combination of mechanical,hand clearing,and herbicide application to remove or control the
growth of vegetation in or impinging upon the right-of-way.
Herbicide application would be applied following U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and
state agency regulations and is applied by licensed applicators.
Substations require a certain amount of maintenance to keep them functioning in accordance with
accepted operating parameters and NESC and NERC requirements.Transformers,circuit breakers,
batteries,protective relays,and other equipment need to be serviced periodically in accordance with
the manufacturer's recommendation. The site itself must be secure,kept free of vegetation,and
proper drainage must be maintained. '
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' 5 POTENTIAL IMPACTS & MITIGATION MEASURES
The construction of a transmission facility involves both short-and long-term impacts. An impact
' is a change to the pre-construction environment as a direct or indirect result of the proposed action
and may be positive or negative. Direct impacts are caused by the action and occur at the same time
and place. Indirect impacts are caused by the action and occur later in time,but are still reasonably
foreseeable.
This section describes the potential impacts on resources and the possible mitigation measures
' intended to avoid,minimize,or mitigate impacts caused by the construction and future operation
and maintenance of the proposed transmission facility.
' 5.1 Environmental Setting
The Project is composed of both the substation site and the route. The substation site is located on
an open upland area bounded by the BNSF railway to the north,Hennepin County Road 6 to the
' south,and the Huntington Farm neighborhood to the west.
The Xcel Energy Proposed Route is located on the Orono substation site owned by Xcel Energy,
' and then on Hunt Farm Home Owners Association property,just outside or the BNSF railroad
right-of-way for the majority of the route. The Baker Park Reserve Route Alternative follows the
Xcel Energy Proposed Route,and then crosses over the BNSF railroad and U.S. Highway 12 to
' parallel along the north side of U.S. Highway 12,just outside of MnDOT right-of-way.
The Project is located within the Big Woods Ecological Subsection of the Eastern Broadleaf Forest
' Province of the Ecological Classification System developed by MnDNR and the United States
Forest Service. The Ecological Classification System was developed to identify,describe,and map
progressively smaller areas of land with increasingly uniform ecological features. The Big Woods
subsection is characterized by circular,level topped hills bounded by smooth side slopes. The
Mississippi River is the eastern border of this subsection. The area was previously occupied by oak
woodland and basswood forest,with characteristic trees being elm,basswood,sugar maple and bur
' oak(MnDNR,2011a). Although land use in this subsection is predominantly cropland,pasture,
upland forest and wetland,land use in the area immediately surrounding the Project is predominated
by rural residential,undeveloped wetland and woodland,transportation,and regional parkland.
5.2 Socioeconomic
A review of the 2010 U.S. Census data shows Orono to have a lower minority population and higher
' median income than both Hennepin County and Minnesota. Population and economic
characteristics from the 2010 U.S. Census are shown in Table 4.
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Table 4: 2010 Population Characteristics I
Category Minnesota Hennepin County City of Orono t
2000 Population 4,919,492 1,164,200 7,538
2010 Population 5,303,925 1,152,425 7,437
Percent Change 2000-2010 7.8 3.2 -1.3
Non-white,Non-Hispanic or I Latino Origin,2010 Population 14.7 25.6 3.5
(percent)
Median Household Income
(average over 2001-2009) $55,621 $61,651 $114,702a I
Percent Below Poverty Level 10.9 11.9 1.4
(average 2005-2009)
Land Area(sq.miles) 79,727 554 15.98 I Population Density(person/sq. 66.6 2,082 465.3
mile)
Source: U.S,Census Bureau,2011 t
Xcel Energy anticipates that construction of the transmission line would require approximately 6-25
workers over the course of approximately eight weeks. Xcel Energy also anticipates that
construction of the substation would occur over the course of 9-12 months,with an average work
I
force of approximately six workers (Xcel Energy,personal communication,October 13,2011). It is
not expected that additional permanent jobs will be created the Project.
Construction of the Project should also result in small,short-term positive economic impacts in the I
form of increased spending for lodging,meals and other consumer goods and services as well as
purchase of some construction material. Short-term economic benefits from increased economic I activity during the construction phase of the Project are likely to be absorbed within the larger Twin
Cities metro economy and not limited to the immediate project area.
No disproportionate impacts on minority or low-income populations are anticipated. I
Long-term socioeconomic effects from the Project would include an increase to the county's tax
I
revenues as a result of the value of construction and the increased value of utility property resulting
from the Project. In addition to the relatively small increase to county tax revenues,the Project
would improve the overall transmission stability and ensure voltage stability.
I
Mitigation Measures
The socio-economic impacts from the Project are likely to be mostly positive,no additional
I
mitigation measures are proposed.
5.3 Human Settlement I Transmission lines have the potential to produce impacts to human settlement resulting from
possible displacement of homes or businesses,aesthetics,and potential impacts to property values.
Regulators and utilities try to select routes that avoid residences as much as possible to minimize I impacts to residents and businesses. Specifically,Minnesota Statute 216E.02,subd. 1 provides that,
"... the commission shall locate transmission lines in a manner that minimize adverse human and
environmental impact while insuring continuing electric power system reliability and integrity and
I
insuring that electric energy needs are met and fulfilled in an orderly and timely fashion."
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PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 22
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' Proximity to Homes and Businesses and Displacement
Transmission line facilities require certain clearances from buildings for safe operation of the
' transmission line. The required clearances are defined in the NESC and Xcel's standard engineering
and design practices. As indicated in the route permit application,Xcel would acquire a right-of-way
of 75 feet for the project,but has indicated that the project may be designed to overlap with existing
t transportation ROWs,thereby requiring less right-of-way while still satisfying the needs of the
project.
' Displacement can occur when a structure is located within the proposed right-of-way for a new
transmission line facility.
' The two routes evaluated would both parallel and follow existing railroad and road rights-of-way for
a significant portion of their respective routes. Following the existing transportation rights-of-way
helps the routes stay away from homes. For both routes the nearest home to the substation is
approximately 180 feet south of Xcel Energy's property boundary (Xcel Energy,personal
' communication,October 18,2011),and the nearest home to the transmission line is 275 feet(Xcel
Energy,personal communication,November). One unoccupied outbuilding is 86 feet south of the
proposed alignment(Xcel Energy,personal communication,November 17,2011).
' Based on a review of aerial photographs and a site visit,the routing and construction of the
transmission line and associated facilities will not require the displacement of any homes or
' businesses.
Property Values
One of the first concerns of many residents near existing or proposed transmission lines is how that
proximity to the line could affect the value of their property. Research on this issue does not
identify a clear cause and effect relationship between the two. Instead,the presence of a
' transmission line becomes one of several factors that interact to affect the value of a particular
property.
' Because of the large number of factors that influence the value of a specific property,it is very
difficult,if not impossible,to predict the effect that a specific transmission facility would have on a
specific property. The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin addressed the issue of changes in
property value associated with high-voltage transmission lines in their Final Environmental Impact
Statement on the Arrowhead—Weston Electric Transmission Line Project (Public Service
Commission of Wisconsin,2000). Their analysis of the relationship between property values and
transmission lines looked at approximately 30 papers,articles and court cases covering the period
from 1987 through 1999.
' The Wisconsin analysis identified two types of property value impacts that property owners may
experience: (1) potential economic impact associated with the amount paid by a utility for a right-of-
way easement,and (2) potential economic impact regarding the future marketability of the property.
The Arrowhead—Weston Electric Transmission Line Project Final EIS provides the following six
general observations from the studies it evaluated.
' • The potential reduction in sale price for single family homes may range from 0 to 14 percent.
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• Adverse effects on the sale price of smaller properties could be greater than effects on the '
sale price of larger properties.
• Other amenities,such as proximity to schools or jobs,lot size, square footage of a house and '
neighborhood characteristics,tend to have a much greater effect on sale price than the
presence of a power line.
• The adverse effects appear to diminish over time.
• Effects on sale price are most often observed for property crossed by or immediately '
adjacent to a power line,but effects have also been observed for properties farther away
from the line.
• The value of agricultural property is likely to decrease if the power line poles are placed in an
area that inhibits farm operations.
Aesthetics
The Project crosses a mixture of wooded and wetland areas. Depending upon the route,land uses
are a mixture of utility,transportation,undeveloped residential and a regional park. The Project is
located near a residential development,and a portion of the route would cross property that is
owned by the homeowners association and maintained as undeveloped. U.S.Highway 12,a 4-lane
limited access highway,and the BNSF railway pass through the northern portion of the route,while
Hennepin County Road 6 is located to the south. There are two existing transmission lines near the
Project area. Xcel Energy's 115 kV Line 0831enters the Project area from the west. The structures
for this line in the area are H-frame wood pole structures of approximately 60 - 75 feet. GRE's 69
kV BD line currently enters the Orono substation. The structures on the GRE 69 kV transmission
line are wood single pole structures with heights of approximately 60 feet.
The Project would introduce several changes to the existing landscape: an expanded substation,a
new segment of double circuit 115/115 kV transmission line,relocation of a segment of single-
circuit 115 kV transmission line,and relocation of a segment of 69 kV transmission line near the
expanded substation. The existing 0.1 acre Orono Substation would be replace by a new substation
with a fenced area of approximately 1.2 acres. The new substation would contain approximately
eight pieces of electrical equipment and a new structure to house electrical control panels. The
height of the new equipment would be approximately 13-18 feet. Installation of the expanded
substation would also entail removal of scattered pockets of existing trees and other vegetation west
and north of the existing substation location.
The Project would consist of single and double-circuit 115 kV structures. All structures would be
constructed of galvanized or weathering steel. As proposed,the Project would install five new
double-circuit structures with heights of 75 to 115 feet,two cross-arm Y structures with heights of
70 to 90 feet and one single circuit structure with height of 70 to 90 feet (Xcel Energy,September 7,
2011). Structures are show in Figure 2. The installation of the transmission line would require tree
clearing within an approximately 75-foot right-of-way. Estimates of vegetation clearing are provided
in Section 5.14.
The Project would be visible to residents in the Project area as well as those travelling through along
U.S.Highway 12 and Hennepin County Road 6/6t Avenue North. The Orono Substation,
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PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 24
although significantly larger,is somewhat screened from the housing to the west by a hill or berm
along the west side of Xcel Energy's property. The Project's transmission structures would contrast
' with the existing shorter wood transmission structures in the area.
The substation would include appropriate and sufficient lighting within the substation area in the
' event of an emergency during low light or night time conditions. During normal operation all of the
substation lights will be left off and the substation will be dark,unless required by local units of
government for other purposes such as security. During emergencies lights would be needed to
facilitate the safety of personnel if work occurs in low light or after sunset;routine maintenance
work is typically scheduled during daytime hours (Xcel Energy,personal communication,November
10,2011). Transmission structures are not lit.
' Mitigation Measures
The primary mitigation strategy to minimize impacts to homes and businesses is avoidance through
routing. No additional mitigation is proposed.
The use of a property for a transmission facility does transfer ownership of one of the bundle of
property rights from the property owner to the easement holder. This loss of a portion of the
' potential use of the property requires compensation of the property owner for the use of the
property. Any potential impacts of property values would typically be mitigated through negotiation
in an easement agreement between the applicants and the landowner.
' The use of double-circuit structures minimizes the number of structures and the width of right-of-
way needed for the transmission portion of the Project,although the double-circuit structures are
' taller.
Xcel Energy has stated it intends to minimize vegetation clearing to the extent possible and to work
with landowners to identify visual concerns related to the Project and to develop suitable mitigation
measures. Xcel Energy's current substation plans include building the substation partially into the
adjacent hillside and establishing prairie landscaping and trees along the western edge of Xcel
' Energy's property(Appendix C). Xcel Energy is currently discussing with residents of the Hunt
Farm neighborhood the possible addition of a berm along the western edge of the property to
provide screening of the substation for residents of the neighborhood (Xcel Energy,June 7,2011).
' 5.4 Noise
Noise is measured in units of decibels (dB),or sound pressure level. The sound pressure level for
' purposes of human hearing is measured with the A-weighted decibel scale or dB(A). In general
terms,a noise level change of 3 dB(A) is imperceptible to human hearing,a 5 dB(A) change is clearly
noticeable,and a 10 dB(A) change is perceived as a doubling of noticeable sound. Cumulative noise
' increases occur on a logarithmic scale. Potential noise associated with the proposed project includes
sources associated with construction and long-term operation of the proposed project. Estimates of
some common sources of noise are presented in Table 5.
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PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 25
Table 5: Common Noise Sources and Average Sound Levels '
Noise Source Sound Pressure Level (dBA)
Jet Engine(at 25 meters) 140
Jet Aircraft(at 100 meters) 130
Rock and Roll Concert 120
Pneumatic Chipper 110
Jointer/Planer 100
Chainsaw 90
Heavy Truck Traffic 80
Business Office 70
Conversational Speech 60
Library 50 '
Bedroom 40
Secluded Woods 30
Whisper 20
Source: Minnesota Pollution Control Agency,2008
Noise standards in Minnesota have been established and are defined in Minnesota Rule 7030 and
regulated by the MPCA. The Noise Control Requirement states that noise contributors shall comply
with the Noise Area Classifications (NAC) established in Minnesota Rules part 7030.0040,which are
shown in Table 6.The NAC is based on land use activity at the location of the receiver. For
example,household units are defined under NAC (1),bus passenger terminals are defined under
NAC (2),and transportation right-of-way is defined under NAC (3). NAC (1) also includes other
noise-sensitive areas such as medical and other health services,religious services,educational
services and camping areas.
1
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Table 6: Noise Area Classifications
' NAC Day (7 a.m. —10 p.m.) Night (10 p.m. —7 a.m.)
1,50 L10 L50 L10
1 60 65 50 55
65 70 65 70
3 75 80 75 80
Notes: Minnesota Rules part 7030 uses the decibel A-weighting network and applies statistical
sound levels(L-Level Descriptors)to account for changes in sound levels over a period time as
shown. The L10 is defined as the noise level exceeded 10 percent of the time,or for six minutes in
an hour. The L50 is the noise level exceeded 50 percent of the time,or for thirty minutes in an
hour. The L5 is the noise level exceeded five percent of the time,or for three minutes in an hour.
The Project would result in short-term noise from the construction phase of the Project as well as
noise from the conductors and substation once the Project is in operation.
' Construction Noise
Short-term exceedance of daytime noise standards would be intermittent and temporary in nature.
' Noise from general construction noise are expected to occur during daytime hours as the result of
heavy equipment operation and increased vehicle traffic associated with the transport of equipment
and construction personnel to and from the work area.
Conductor Noise
Transmission conductors can produce noise under certain conditions. The level of noise depends
' on conductor conditions,voltage level,and weather conditions. In foggy,damp,or rainy weather,
transmission lines can create a crackling sound due to the small amount of electricity ionizing the
moist air near the conductors,or corona discharge. In practice,noise levels produced by 115 kV
' transmission lines are generally less than outdoor background levels and,therefore,are not usually
audible.
The worst-case scenario is when the conductor is exposed to heavy rain conditions (one inch per
hour). However,during heavy rain the background noise level of the rain is typically greater than
the noise from the transmission line. As a result,people do not normally hear noise from a
' transmission line during heavy rain. Sound emanating from conductors would typically be noticed
during light rain,dense fog,snow,and other times when there is moisture in the air;transmission
lines would produce audible noise approximately equal to household background levels.
Xcel Energy calculated the estimated audible noise that may be produced from the proposed
transmission line using the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) CFI8X model. To ensure that
' the noise was not under-predicted the worst-case scenario was used as the benchmark. The
anticipated noise levels derived from the modeling are presented in Table 7.
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PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 27
Table 7: Calculated Transmission Line Audible Noise Levels (3.28 feet above ground) '
Audible Noise Levels at Edge of Right-of-Way
Structure Type (dBA)
L5 L50
Single Pole Vertical Configuration with Post '
Insulators, 115 kV Single-Circuit 14.5 11.0
Single Pole Davit Arm 115 kV/ 115 kV I
Double-Circuit 23.3
Single Pole Davit Arm 115 kV/115kV Double 23.3 19.8
Circuit with Distribution Under Build
Single Pole,Cross Arm,Y-Frame Structure 115 15.8 12.3
kV Single-Circuit
Source: Xcel Energy,June 7,2011;Xcel Energy,personal communication, November 7,2011. Calculations were
performed using the EPRI Enviro software and the BPA standard method of calculation.
Substation Noise
Noise associated with substations includes the operation of transformers and switchgear.The
transformers produce a constant low-frequency humming noise while the switchgear produces an
impulsive or short duration noise during infrequent activation of the circuit breakers.
The distance between the Xcel Orono Substation property boundary to nearby homes are
approximately 180 feet to the south,across County Road 6,and approximately 270 feet to the west
(Xcel Energy,personal communication,October 13).
Xcel Energy proposes to install a 28MVA distribution transformer that is currently in storage.
Future plans anticipate upgrading the 28MVA transformer to 50MVA and eventually adding a
second 50 MVA transformer;the date of the upgrade and addition is dependent upon customer load '
growth demands (Xcel Energy,personal communication,November 21,2011).
Xcel Energy is currently conducting a noise assessment of the Orono Substation site. Because no
noise level data is available from Xcel Energy records or from the manufacturer of this transformer
Xcel Energy is using an assumed 75 to 78 dBA noise level range at the transformer location.
Mitigation Measures
HVTL route permits require compliance with state noise standards established by the MPCA.
The Project will be designed and constructed to comply with state noise standards established by
MPCA during operation of the transmission line and substation.
Construction activities would also need to comply with MPCA noise standards. Construction work
would generally be limited to daytime hours,between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m on weekdays. Occasionally
there may be construction outside of these hours or on a weekend if it becomes necessary to work
around customer schedules or line outages. Heavy equipment would be equipped with sound
attenuation devices such as mufflers to minimize noise levels (Xcel Energy,personal
communication,November 14,2011).
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Xcel Energy has stated their intent to file the results of the substation noise assessment to the Project
docket once the results are available.Depending on the results of the noise assessment,additional
I
corrective steps may be required to ensure compliance with the state noise standard.Xcel Energy has
also committed to performing actual sound measurements of the transformer once it is installed to
confirm compliance with the state noise standard(Xcel Energy,personal communication,November 21,
I
2011).
5.5 Public Health and Safety
IGenerally human health and safety issues related to transmission projects can be grouped into issues
associated with construction and those associated with the operation and maintenance of the
Project.
I
As with any construction project involving heavy equipment and high-voltage electrical facilities,
there are safety issues during construction. Potential health and safety impacts would be injuries
Irelated to worker falls, falling equipment and electrocution.
Potential health and safety impacts associated with the operation phase of the proposed Projects
I include: electrocution or injury from equipment failure,injuries associated with unauthorized access
to energized transmission equipment,health impacts from electric or magnetic fields associated with
operation of the Projects,and stray voltage.
IEquipment failure and unauthorized access to transmission equipment
Electric transmission lines,and their associated facilities,carry electricity at a very high voltage. This
I high voltage is transformed at distribution substations down to the voltage that is used by most
customers at their homes.
I Under certain conditions,high voltage transmission lines or high voltage substation equipment may
fail. These failures are most commonly a result of extreme weather or electric circuit overloading. If
equipment fails,injury or death may occur as a result.
IUnauthorized access to transmission equipment by persons who are not trained to work with high
voltage equipment can result in serious injury or death.
IElectric and Magnetic Fields
Wherever there is electricity there are electric and magnetic fields (EMF). Electric and magnetic
I fields are not only created by high-voltage transmission and distribution lines,but also by home
appliances,electronics,cell phones,wireless networks, fluorescent lights,and wiring configurations
in homes,businesses,and schools. As a result,we are all exposed on a daily basis to a complex mix
Iof electric and magnetic fields at many different frequencies (WHO,2002).
Electric and magnetic fields are invisible just like radio,television,and cellular phone signals,all of
I which are part of the electromagnetic spectrum. The frequency of transmission line EMF in the
United States is 60 hertz and falls in the extremely low frequency (ELF) range of the electromagnetic
spectrum(any frequency below 300 hertz). By comparison, cellular phone communications operate
Iat frequencies almost one billion times higher than EMF resulting from electric power (Long Island
Power Authority,2005).
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Natural and human-made electric and magnetic fields are,in fact,present everywhere in our
environment. The Earth's natural static background electric field is approximately 120 to 150 volts
per meter(V/m). Natural electric fields are also produced by the local build-up of electric charges in
the atmosphere that are associated with thunderstorms. The Earth itself has a magnetic field that
ranges from approximately 300 to 700 milligauss (mG),the field is a steady-state or static (zero
hertz) magnetic field,but has similar characteristics to the magnetic fields emanating from human-
made sources.
Electric and magnetic fields created by humans include X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging
(MRIs) machines,electric and magnetic passenger trains,electric cars,and cellular telephones. The
general wiring and appliances located in a typical home can produce an average background
magnetic field of 0.5 mG to 4 mG (EPA, 1992).
Electric and magnetic fields arise from the voltage and the flow of electricity(current) through a
conductor. The intensity of the electric field is related to the voltage of the line and the intensity of
the magnetic field is related to the electric current. The electric field associated with high-voltage
transmission lines "extend" from the energized conductors to other nearby objects whereas the
magnetic field"surrounds" the conductor. Together,these fields are generally referred to electric
and magnetic fields or EMF. A summary of electric and magnetic field properties is summarized in
Table 8.
Table 8: Summary of Electric and Magnetic Field Properties '
Electric Fields Magnetic Fields
Electric fields arise from voltage. Magnetic fields arise from current flows.
Their strength is measured in kilovolts per meter Their strength is measured in milligauss(mG)or microtesla
(kV/m).
An electric field can be present even when a device is Magnetic fields exist as soon as a device is switched on and
switched off. current flows.
Field strength decreases with distance from the Field strength decreases with distance from the source.
source.
Most building materials shield electric fields to some Magnetic fields are not attenuated by most materials.
extent.
Source: WHO,1999
This section of the EA specifically addresses electric and magnetic fields produced through
transmission of electric power at 60 Hz or cycles per second.
Electric Fields '
Electrical fields are created by voltage. Voltage can be described as the potential difference between
two points and will always try to drive an electric current. The voltage on any conductor produces
an electric field that extends from the wire in all directions. The intensity of electric fields is
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PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 30
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Iassociated with the voltage of the transmission line and is measured in kilovolts per meter (kV/m).
Some typical electric field strengths measured near common household appliances are presented in
ITable 9.
Table 9: Typical Electric Fields (kV/m) from Common Home and Business Appliances
ISource Electric Field Strength (at a distance of 30 cm)
IIron 0.12
Refrigerator 0.12
IToaster 0.08
Coffee machine 0.06
I Vacuum cleaner 0.05
Source: WHO,1999.
I Transmission line electric field levels are typically greatest near the center of the line right-of-way
with levels decreasing as one moves away from the central alignment. The electric field associated
with a high-voltage transmission line may extend from the energized conductors to other nearby
I objects such as the ground,towers,vegetation,buildings,and vehicles. These objects are commonly
referred to as "screeners". The screening effect associated with these and other objects reduce the
strength of transmission line electric fields.
IOn the whole, scientific evidence indicates that chronic exposure to electric fields at or below levels
traditionally established for safety does not cause adverse health effects. Safety concerns related to
I electric fields are sufficiently addressed by adherence to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers (IEEE) and NESC standards.
I There are currently no federal guidelines on the strength of electrical fields beneath high-voltage
transmission lines. However,six states have established their own regulations or guidelines with
regard to transmission line electric fields (Table 10).
I
I
I
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Table 10: State Established Electric and Magnetic Field Standards and Guidelines '
Electric Field (kV/m) Magnetic Field (mG) '
State Edge of Right-of-
Within Right-of-Way Wa Edge of Right-of-Way
Y
8a 2 150a(max load)
Florida 10b 200b(max load)
250c(max load)
Massachusetts 85g
Minnesota 8
Montana 7d le
New Jersey 3
11.8 1.6 200(max load) ,
New York 11 e
7d
Oregon 9
Source: MSH,2002 and NIEHS,2002
a 69 kV to 230 kV transmission lines a may be waived by the landowner
b 500 kV transmission lines maximum for private road crossings
`500 kV transmission lines on certain existing ROW g a level above 85 mG is not prohibited, but may trigger
d maximum for highway crossing a more extensive review of alternatives.
In addition to the state guidelines identified above, there are a number of national and international '
boards, committees,and commissions that have recommended electric field exposure guidelines or
thresholds for 60 hertz high-voltage transmission lines. Table 11 summarizes the suggested electric
field guidelines from a number of these internationally recognized organizations.
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tTable 11: Electric and Magnetic Field Guidelines from Internationally Organizations
I
Electric Field (kV/m) Magnetic Field (mG)
Organization General General
Public Occupational Public Occupational
IIEEE 5 20 9,040 27,100
ICNIRP 4.2 8.3 830 4,200
IACGIH 25 10,000/1,000a
NRPB 4.2 =_= 830 4,200
I European Union 4.2 830
Source: IEEE-Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, ICNIRP-International Commission on Non-
I Ionizing Radiation Protection,ACGIH-American Conference of Industrial Hygienists, NRPB-National
Radiological Protection Board
a for persons with cardiac pacemakers or other medical electronic devices.
IEstimated electrical fields at maximum operating voltage for the proposed project,as provided by
the applicant,are presented in Table 12. The expected electric fields for the structure type and
Ivoltage proposed have been calculated at various distances from the centerline.
Table 12: Calculated Electric Fields (kV/m)for Proposed Orono 115 kV Transmission Line
I (3.28 feet above ground)
Maximum Distance to Proposed Centerline(feet)
I Operating
Voltage
Structure Type (kV) -300 -200 -100 -75 -50 -25 0 25 50 75 100 200 300
Single Pole
t I-I-Post Vertical 121 .011 .021 .043 .037 .037 .338 1.09 .668 .130 .030 .049 .025 .012
115 kV Single Circuit
Single Pole
Davit Arm 115 121 .002 .005 .011 .005 .071 .341 .437 .341 .071 .005 .011 .005 .002
I
kV/115kV Double
Circuit
Single Pole Davit Arm
115 kV/115kV Double 121 .002 .004 .004 .014 .088 .278 .107 .294 .089 .014 .004 .004 .002
I Circuit
w/Dist.Under Build
Single Pole
Y-Frame 121 .005 .015 .104 .215 .507 .977 .295 .977 .507 .215 .104 .015 .005
115 kV Single Circuit
Source:Xcel Energy, 2011a,and Xcel Energy,personal communication, November 22,2011.
* Maximum operating voltage is the nominal voltage plus five percent(i.e. 115 kV+5.75= 121 kV).
I The closest home to the transmission line is approximately 275 feet. The highest calculated electric
field directly under the transmission line is 1.09 kV/m. As indicated by the applicant in the route
permit application and subsequent information, the highest calculated electric fields at 100 and 200
I feet from transmission centerline would be 0.104 kV/m and 0.025 kV/m,respectively (Xcel Energy,
personal communication,November 22,2011). These electric field strengths are within the range of
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electric fields generated by other common household/business sources and well below the various I
state and international organization established guidelines.
The maximum calculated electric field on the entire length of project,directly beneath transmission
I
centerline at 3.28 feet above ground is estimated to be 1.09 kV/m. This maximum calculated
electric field is approximately 14 percent of the 8 kV/m guideline historically recommended by the
I
Minnesota Environmental Quality Board (EQB) and the Commission in other route permit
proceedings and again,well below any of the national and international recognized electric field
guidelines as identified in Tables 10 and 11.
Magnetic Fields I
Electric current passing through a conductor produces a magnetic field in the area surrounding the
wire. Similar to electric fields,magnetic fields are strongest near the conductor and diminish with
I
distance. Magnetic fields,however,are not shielded by most common materials and easily pass
through them. The magnetic field may also be called magnetic flux density and is measured in units
of milligauss (mG) or microtesla (p1).
I
We encounter magnetic fields from every-day things such as radar and microwave towers,
television and computer screens,motors, fluorescent lights,microwave ovens,cell phones, electric I blankets,house wiring and hundreds of other common electrical devices.
The general wiring and appliances located in a typical home can produce an average background I magnetic field of 0.5 mG to 4 mG (EPA, 1992). A U.S. government study conducted by the EMF
Research and Public Information Dissemination Program determined that most people in the
United States on average are exposed to magnetic fields of 2 mG or less daily,and varies by I individual (NIEHS,2002). Table 13 summarizes the average level of magnetic fields of common
appliances.
Table 13: Typical Magnetic Fields (mG) of Common Appliances I
Distance from Source I Source
0.5 foot 1 foot 2 feet 4 feet
Baby Monitor 6 1 - - I
Computer Displays 14 5 2 -
Fluorescent Lights 40 6 2 - I
Copy Machines 90 20 7 1
Microwave Ovens 200 4 10 2
I
Electric Pencil Sharpeners 200 70 20 2
Vacuum Cleaner 300 60 10 1
I
Can Opener 600 150 20 2
Color Televisions NA 7 2 -
I
Source: NIEHS,2002
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The study of cancer in relation to ELF magnetic fields has been a topic of study since the late 1970s.
' Since that time there have been several epidemiological studies that have explored the possible
association of not only cancer risks,including brain tumors,leukemia,and breast cancer,but other
potential human maladies including mental health issues. Studies have focused on both
' occupational exposures for individuals working in electrical industries and public exposures for
children and adults living and working around common magnetic field sources (in-home wiring,
transmission lines,home and office appliances/equipment). The results of the various studies
' conducted over the last three decades,specifically those regarding the relationship between EMF
and childhood leukemia and other cancer risks,have been mixed;some have found an association
while others have not(National Cancer Institute,2005).
Where there is association suggested in epidemiological studies,it is usually very near the statistical
threshold of significance. However,when these studies are repeated in a laboratory, the results have
not reproduced or identified a biological mechanism to support a link between health impacts and
' magnetic fields. Researchers continue to look at magnetic fields until more certain conclusions can
be reached.
' In a 2007 report the World Health Organization (WHO) concluded that,although some studies
have noted a weak statistical link between exposure to EMF and incidence of childhood leukemia,
laboratory evidence does not support these findings and that a similar link has not been noted with
' other types of cancer:
... epidemiological evidence is weakened by methodological problems, such as potential selection bias.
' In addition, there are no accepted biophysical mechanisms that would suggest that low-level exposures
are involved in cancer development. ... Additionally, animal studies have been largely negative.
Thus, on balance, the evidence related to childhood leukaemia is not strong enough to be considered
' causal ... Regarding long-term sects, given the weakness of the evidence for a link between
exposure to ELF[extremely low frequengl magnetic fields and childhood leukaemia, the benefits of
exposure reduction on health are unclear. (WHO,2007)
Although scientists are still debating whether EMF is a hazard to health,at the current time in the
United States,there are no federal standards for occupational or residential exposure to magnetic
' fields. Florida,New York,and Massachusetts are the only three states in the country that have set
standards for magnetic field exposure (Table 10). These standards were not in response to health-
based analysis,but rather on maintaining transmission systems within historic levels.
' The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection(ICNIRP) has developed
occupational and residential guidelines for EMF exposure (Table 11). The exposure guidelines
established by the ICNIRP have typically been the guidelines adopted by most countries and
organizations. They have also concluded that available data regarding potential long-term effects,
such as increased risk of cancer,is insufficient to provide a basis for setting exposure restrictions.
' Xcel Energy prepared estimates of magnetic fields for the structure type and voltage at both average
and peak system conditions have been calculated at various distances from the centerline,as
presented in Table 14.
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Table 14: Calculated Magnetic Fields (mG)for Proposed Orono 115 kV Transmission Line '
(3.28 feet above ground)
S stem Current Distance to Proposed Centerline(feet)
Y
Segment Condition (Amps) -300 -200 -100 -75 -50 -25 0 25 50 75 100 200 300
Single Pole Peak 250 0.44 0.95 3.14 4.83 8.04 14.30 22.62 19.15 10.94 6.32 3.95 1.09 0.49
H-Post Vertical
115 kV Single Circuit Average 150 0.26 0.57 1.89 2.90 4.82 8.58 13.57 11.49 6.37 3.79 2.37 0.65 0.29
Single Pole Davit Arm Peak 250 0.04 0.11 0.69 1.38 3.18 7.86 12.82 7.74 3.08 1.33 0.66 0.10 0.04
115 kV/115kV Double
Circuit Average 150 0.02 0.07 0.42 0.83 1.91 4.72 7.69 4.64 1.85 0.80 0.39 0.06 0.02
Single Pole Davit Arm
115 kV/115kV Double Peak 250 0.85 1.57 5.06 8.37 16.37 39.44 69.82 35.80 12.38 5.22 2.60 0.40 0.21
Circuit
w/Dist.Under Build Average 150 0.81 1.50 4.77 7.84 15.28 37.17 67.02 34.09 11.81 5.08 2.61 0.45 0.22
Single Pole Peak 250 0.44 1.00 3.91 6.64 12.95 27.41 38.42 27.68 13.22 6.85 4.08 1.09 0.50
Y-Frame
115 kV Single Circuit Average 150 0.26 0.60 2.35 3.99 7.79 16.67 24.0 16.84 7.95 4.11 2.45 0.66 0.30
Note:The assumed peak and average line loading assumed for these calculations is the estimated flow of 50MVA.
Source:Xcel Energy,June 7,2011;Xcel Energy,personal communication,November 22,2011
The maximum estimated magnetic field generated by the proposed transmission line would be 38.42 ,
mG directly below a 115 kV/115 kV double-circuit transmission centerline at 3.28 feet above
ground,significantly below the 830 mG general public magnetic field guideline established by
ICNIRP. The right-of-way required for the proposed project is 75 feet(37.5 feet on each side of
centerline);the highest estimated magnetic field at a distance of 75 feet from the transmission line
centerline would be approximately 1.3 to 1.4 mG. At 300 feet from the transmission centerline the
magnetic field level drops to a maximum of 0.5 mG,at the lower end of the average background
magnetic field of a typical home of 0.5 mG to 4 mG (EPA, 1992).
Based upon current scientific evidence,no adverse effects from electric fields or magnetic fields on
health are expected for persons living or working at locations along or near the proposed project.
The Commission has consistently found that there is insufficient evidence to demonstrate a causal
relationship between EMF exposure and any adverse human health effects. Below are some
references to recent Commission proceedings relating to high-voltage transmission lines and the
issue of electric fields and magnetic fields:
120. The absence of any demonstrated impact by electric field and magnetic field exposure supports the
conclusion that there is no demonstrated impact on human health and safety. No adverse effects from electric
111
fields and magnetic fields on health are expected for persons living or working at locations along or near the
proposed Project. (Minnesota Public Utilities Commission,2010,Finding 120)
40. The issue of electric and magnetic fields was discussed in the environmental assessment. A number '
of national and international health agencies(The Minnesota Department of Health, The World Health
Organization, The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences)have generally concluded in their
research that there is insufficient evidence to prove a connection between electric and magnetic fields exposure
and health effects. Research has not been able to establish a cause and Oct relationship between exposure to
magnetic fields and human disease, nor a plausible biological mechanism by which exposure to electric and
magnetic fields could cause disease. No Minnesota regulations have been established pertaining to magnetic '
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fields from high voltage transmission lines. (Minnesota Public Utilities Commission,2009,Finding
40)
ITo assist the public in understanding this issue,the applicant may provide information to the public,
interested customers and employees. The information may references studies and provides data to
Ihelp explain the relative impact of transmission line exposure to other common EMF exposures,
and allow individuals to make informed decisions regarding EMF.
Stray Voltage
IStray voltage is an extraneous voltage that appears on grounded surfaces in buildings,barns and
other structures,including utility distribution systems. Sources of stray voltage include a variety of
Ion-farm wiring and grounding problems and off-farm problems related to connections on the
electric distribution system. Sometimes a small voltage can develop at these grounding points and
flow through the earth. This voltage is called a neutral-to-earth voltage (NEV). More precisely,
stray voltage is a small voltage that is measured between two points that animals such as livestock
I
can simultaneously come into contact with. When an animal simultaneously contacts these points a
small current will flow through the animal (Fick and Surbrook,n.d.).These NEV currents may
contribute to an excess of acceptable current in a livestock contact area on an adjoining farm. As
I such,stray voltage has primarily been raised as a concern on dairy farms because it may impact
operations and milk production. Stray voltages are low-level voltages and should be distinguished
from shocks felt by humans. Stray voltages are not lethal.
IStray voltage is by and large an issue associated with electrical distribution lines. Transmission lines
do not create stray voltage as they do not directly connect to businesses,residences,or farms.
IStray voltage (NEV) sources can be reduced in three fundamental ways:reduce the current flow on
the neutral system;reduce the resistance of the neutral system;or improve the grounding of the
I neutral system. Making good electrical connections and making sure that these connections are
maintained by the proper choice of wiring materials for wet and corrosive locations will reduce the
resistance of the grounded neutral system and thereby reduce NEV levels.
IAs indicated by Xcel Energy in its route permit application,should a customer suspect that stray
voltage/NEV is a concern on their property,they can call the Xcel Energy stray voltage hotline
I (651-779-3131) and discuss the situation with an Xcel Energy technician or engineer. If warranted,
an on-farm investigation will be scheduled. Xcel Energy will conduct an investigation of the
distribution utility system serving the farm and the farm wiring and discuss the preliminary results
I with the customer. In most instances,recording volt meters will be set to measure activity over
several days. Upon completing the analysis,an Xcel Energy engineer or technician will call the
farmer to discuss the results (Xcel Energy,2011a).
IInduced Voltage/Contact Voltage
The electric field from a transmission line in some instances can reach a nearby conductive object,
Isuch as a vehicle or a metal fence,which is in close proximity to the transmission line. This may
induce a voltage on the object,which is dependent on many factors,including the weather
conditions,object shape,size,orientation,capacitance and location along the right-of-way. If these
objects are insulated or semi-insulated from the ground and a person touches them,a small current
I
would pass through the person's body to the ground. This touch may be accompanied by a spark
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PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 37
discharge and mild shock,similar to what can occur when a person walks across a carpet and '
touches a grounded object or another person.
The major concern with induced voltage is the current that flows through a person to the ground '
when touching the object,not the level of the induced voltage. Most shocks from induced current
are considered more of a nuisance than a danger,but to ensure the safety of persons in the
proximity of high-voltage transmission lines,the NESC requires that any discharge be less than 5
milliAmperes. In addition,the Commission's electric field limit of 8 kV/m was designed to prevent
serious hazard from shocks due to induced voltage under high-voltage transmission lines. Proper
grounding of metal objects under and/or adjacent to the transmission line is the best method of
avoiding these shocks.
Xcel has indicated that farm equipment,passenger vehicles,and trucks may be safely used under and
near power lines. The power lines will be designed to meet or exceed minimum clearance
requirements over roads,driveways,cultivated fields,and grazing lands specified by the NESC.
Recommended clearances within the NESC are designed to accommodate a relative vehicle height
of 14 feet(Xcel Energy,2011a).
Implantable Devices
Implantable medical devices such as pacemakers,defibrillators,neurostimulators,and insulin pumps
may be subject to interference from strong electric and magnetic fields. Most of the research on
electromagnetic interference and medical devices is related to pacemakers. According to a 2004
Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) report,implantable cardiac devices are much more
sensitive to electric fields than to magnetic fields. In the report,the earliest interference from
magnetic fields in pacemakers was observed at 1,000 mG, far greater than the magnetic fields
associated with high-voltage transmission lines (EPRI,2004). Therefore,the focus of research has
been on electric field impacts.
Electric fields may interfere with an implanted cardiac device's ability to sense normal electrical
activity in the heart if the electric field intensity is high enough to induce body currents strong
enough to cause interaction. In the unlikely event a pacemaker is impacted,the effect is typically a
temporary asynchronous pacing(commonly referred to as reversion mode or fixed rate pacing). The
pacemaker returns to its normal operation when the person moves away from the source of the
interference.
Medtronic and Guidant,manufacturers of pacemakers and implantable cardioverter/ defibrillators,
have indicated that electric fields below 6 kV/m are unlikely to cause interactions affecting operation
of modern bipolar devices (Department of Commerce,2009). Older unipolar designs,however,are
more susceptible to interference from electric fields with research suggesting that the earliest
evidence of interference occurred in electric fields ranging from 1.2 to 1.7 kV/m(Toivonen et al,
1991). These initial interaction levels are significantly higher than 1.09 kV/m maximum electric field
predicted for this project. The risk of interference inhibition of unipolar cardiac pacemakers from
high-voltage power lines in everyday life is small(Scholten et al,2004).
There would be no anticipated permanent impacts on implantable medical devices as a result of the
proposed project.
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5.6 Air Quality
Air quality emissions directly related to high-voltage transmission lines are negligible amounts of
I ozone and oxides of nitrogen caused by the corona effect. The other potential air quality issues are
associated with construction activities,such as fugitive dust and exhaust emissions from
construction equipment.
IOzone and Nitrogen Oxides
Corona discharge is energy loss that physically creates very small amounts of sound,radio noise,
I heat,and chemical reactions of the air near a conductor,and is a phenomenon associated with all
transmission lines. Under certain conditions,the localized electric field near an energized conductor
can become strong enough to produce a tiny electric discharge that can ionize air close to the
I conductors. Several factors contribute to corona discharge,including conductor voltage,shape and
diameter,and surface irregularities that can affect a conductor's electrical surface gradient such as
scratches,nicks,dust,or water drops. In the case of air quality,this partial discharge of electrical
I energy can produce very tiny amounts of ozone and nitrogen oxide with ozone being the primary
oxidant.
I Ozone also forms naturally in the Earth's lower atmosphere from lightning discharges and from
reactions between solar ultraviolet radiation and air pollutants such as hydrocarbons from auto
emissions. Typical rural ambient levels are around 10 to 30 parts per billion (ppb) at night with
I peaks of 100 ppb and higher(EPRI, 1982). In urban areas,concentrations greater than 100 ppb are
common.
IThe natural production rate of ozone is directly proportional to temperature and sunlight and
inversely proportional to humidity. Therefore,humidity,the same factor that increases corona
discharges from transmission lines,inhibits the production of ozone. Ozone is a very reactive form
of oxygen and combines readily with other elements and compounds in the atmosphere. Because of
I
its high reactivity,ozone is relatively short-lived. The state and federal government both have
regulations regarding permissible concentrations of ozone and oxides of nitrogen: Minnesota sets
an ozone limit of 0.08 parts per million (ppm) as the highest eight hour average (Minnesota Rule,
I
part 7009.0800),and the federal limit is 0.075 ppm as the fourth-highest eight hour daily maximum
average (40 CFR,Part 50).
I Calculations according to the BPA Corona and Field Effects Program Version 3 for a standard
single-circuit 115 kV project predicted a maximum concentration of 0.006 ppm near the conductor
and 0.002 ppm at one meter above ground during foul weather or worst case conditions with rain at
I one inch per hour. During a mist(rain at 0.01 inch per hour) the maximum concentrations
decreased to 0.0002 ppm near the conductor and 0.0001 ppm at one meter above ground level.
(United States Department of Energy,BPA)For both cases, the ozone levels are below federal
I standards. Studies designed to monitor the production of ozone under transmission lines have been
unable to detect any increase attributable to the transmission line facility.
I Construction/Fugitive Dust
There would be limited emissions from vehicles and other construction equipment and fugitive dust
from right-of-way clearing during construction of the Project. Temporary air quality impacts are
I expected to occur during this phase of activity. The magnitude of emissions is influenced heavily by
weather conditions and the specific construction activity taking place. Exhaust emissions from
primarily diesel equipment would vary according to the phase of construction but would be minimal
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and temporary. Adverse impacts to the surrounding environment would be minimal because of the '
short and intermittent nature of the emission and dust-producing construction phases. The Project
is not anticipated to result in any permanent impacts on air quality.
Mitigation Measures
As a standard HVTL Permit condition, construction activities must follow best management
practices (BMPs) to control air emissions (fugitive dust). Petroleum based dust suppressants may
not be used. Construction vehicles with excess tailpipe emissions would not be operated until
repairs to the vehicle could be made. The disturbed area for each route would be minimized.
As there are no significant impacts to air qualityanticipated, no mitigation beyond these BMPs are
proposed.
5.7 Transportation and Utilities
The proposed route alignments for both routes anticipate overlapping with existing railroad or high
ROWs. No direct impacts to utilities are anticipated from the Project,although the Project would
enhance the reliability of the transmission grid. Potential interference with communication sources
is discussed in Section 5.18.
Transportation
U.S. Highway 12 provides a major east-west corridor to the western Twin Cities Metropolitan area.
U.S. Highway 12 widens from two to four lanes at the eastern edge of the Project,approaching the
intersection with Hennepin County Road 6 (also known as 6th Avenue North in this area). MnDOT
has completed the U.S.Highway 12 Bypass project adjacent to and north of the Project;no
additional work in this area is planned at this time. Hennepin County Road 6 borders the Project to
the south and east.
No new transportation facilities will be required for the Project. Delivery of Project components, '
such as poles and conductors,may have temporary impacts along U.S.Highway 12. Construction
crews may use portions of the road shoulder while poles are installed and conductors are strung.
The Project will cross the U.S. Highway 12 at least once. In both routes evaluated,the current
crossing would be used. If the Baker Park Reserve Alternative were selected,the route would also
cross the highway proceeding north from the substation to the Baker Park Reserve and parallel U.S.
Highway 12. If the Project is located along the Baker Park Reserve Route Alternative,Xcel
Energy's preference is to locate transmission structures approximately 10 feet north of MnDOT
right-of-way(Xcel Energy,personal communication,October 13,2011) along the Baker Park
Reserve Alternative,however,as discussed in Section 5.8,Orono's shoreland overlay zoning would
require a setback of 30 feet from road rights of way.
The BNSF Railroad parallels the south side of U.S. Highway 12 through the Project area. The '
Project would cross the BNSF railroad at least once,at the current crossing of Transmission Line
0831. Xcel Energy received a Certificate of Occupancy from BNSF for a rebuild of the existing
crossing between Structures 076-1 and 076 and for the paralleling of transmission and railroad
rights-of-way on June 24,2011. If the Baker Park Reserve Alternative were selected,the route
would also cross the railroad proceeding north from the substation to the Baker Park Reserve.
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The nearest airport is Maple Airport,a private airport located approximately three miles west of the
Project. It is not anticipated that the Project would impact air traffic.
' Utilities
Metropolitan Council maintains a 12-inch sewer interceptor, forcemain interceptor 8352,buried
approximately 12 feet between the BNSF railroad line and U.S. Highway 12. The Project will cross
the Metropolitan Council forcemain interceptor 8352 at least once. In both routes evaluated,the
current crossing would be used and the interceptor would be easily spanned. If the Baker Park
' Reserve Alternative were selected,the route would also cross the interceptor proceeding north from
the substation to the Baker Park Reserve.
' Both Xcel Energy and Wright-Hennepin Electric Cooperative serve Orono. The area immediately
surrounding the proposed Project is served by Wright-Hennepin Electric Cooperative. The Project
will not change electric service,but will increase reliability of the electric transmission grid.
Xcel Energy will not install water or wastewater facilities at the substation.
Mitigation Measures
' Any crossing of U.S.Highway 12 would require approval from MnDOT. Poles would need to be
placed outside the MnDOT clear zone for any road crossings or portions paralleling U.S. Highway
12. Xcel Energy would work with MnDOT to ensure that transmission structures are outside of
' MnDOT's clear zone and that all safety requirements are met(Xcel Energy,personal
communication, October 13,2011).
' Construction of any portion of the Project would require coordination with the local jurisdiction
(City or County) to minimize traffic impacts.
' Signage during construction activities can help to minimize traffic disruption. Guard structures,
such as temporary wood poles with a cross arm or line trucks with booms,can be used to protect
traffic lanes.
The Occupancy Permit from BNSF details mitigation measures to minimize the potential for
interference between the Project and the railroad.
' Prior to construction the location of the Metropolitan Council forcemain interceptor 8352 will be
marked to ensure that construction activities avoid the interceptor.
' 5.8 Zoning and Compatibility
The Orono Zoning Code,at Section 78-946,lists public service structures integral to transmitting
' power as an allowed conditional use within all zoning districts (Orono,n.d.). The portion of the
Project on Xcel Energy's property is zoned as RR-1A,allowing one family per five acres. The
remainder of Xcel Energy's Route is located in an area zoned as Planned Residential Development.
' The portion of the Baker Park Reserve Alternative located within the Baker Park Reserve is zoned
as RR-1B,allowing one family per two acres. The Orono 2030 Land Use Plan designates the land
south of U.S. Highway 12 as Rural,with one home per 5 acres,and the Baker Park Reserve as park
or open space (Orono,2010).
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Because the operating voltage of the Project exceeds 23,000 volts,the Project is considered a"high- '
voltage transmission line"under Section 14-36 of the Orono City Code (Orono,n.d.). The City
Code defines an expectation that utility service lines be placed underground to serve residential,
commercial,or industrial customers in newly platted areas;however the Project is part of a regional
transmission upgrade and does not directly serve end-use consumers. Section 14-66(b) specifically
exempts high-voltage transmission lines from underground placement.
Orono has established a shoreland overlay district to provide appropriate standards for use and
development of shorelands in order to preserve water quality as well as the economic,recreational
and natural environmental values of the shorelands and waters they surround. The actual limits of
the Shoreland Overlay District depend upon the ordinary high water level (OHWL) of the
waterbodies in question. Although the OHWL has not been delineated the approximate boundaries
of the district,based on an Orono map (City of Orono,2011),are shown in Appendix B (Figure
B-3).
As shown in Figure B-3,several structures for both the Xcel Energy Proposed Route and the Baker
Park Reserve Alternative appear to lie within Orono's Shoreland Overlay District. Under Orono's
Municipal Code structures constructed within the Shoreland Overlay District must meet certain
setbacks from public waters and roads. The code requires setbacks of 150 feet from the OHWL of
Natural Environment lakes,including Lake Katrina and 100 feet from the OHWL of tributaries,
including Painter Creek. The code also requires that structures be setback 30 feet from federal,
state,county,public or private road rights-of-way. '
The City's Community Management Plan(City of Orono,2010a) addresses Private Utilities under
Community Management Plan,Part 4F,Public Services Plan. Most of the language in this section
addresses utility service to new developments. As noted above,the Project is part of a regional
transmission grid,and does not serve a particular development.
Mitigation Measures
Because no impact to land use or zoning is anticipated,no mitigation is proposed.
Compliance with setbacks required under Orono's Shoreland Overlay District would require that '
structures in Baker Park Preserve be set back at least 30 feet from MnDOT ROW along U.S.
Highway 12.
5.9 Recreation
Although Orono has many parks providing a variety of recreational activities,Baker Park Reserve is
the recreational resource closest to the Project. Both routes would replace one structure within the
Baker Park Reserve,while the Baker Park Reserve Route Alternative would result in installation of
an additional three structures in the park.
The Baker Park Reserve,part of the Three Rivers Park District,is comprised of approximately 2,700
acres in the cities of Orono and Medina. The southern portion of Baker Park Reserve is north and
across U.S. Highway 12 from the Proposed Route;the Baker Park Reserve Route Alternative crosses
through the park for approximately 940 feet. Baker Park provides a variety of recreational activities
including hiking,camping,boating and canoeing,golfing,biking,and winter sports (Three Rivers
park District,2011). The Park Gun Club is also located within the Baker Park Reserve
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IWith the Xcel Energy Proposed Route direct impacts to Baker Park Reserve would be replacement
of Structure 076 on the existing Xcel Energy Line 0831;indirect impact would be visual,although
most likely limited to the western portion of the Project.
I
Depending upon the setback required from public road ROW,discussed further in Section 5.8,the
U Baker
Park Reserve Alternative would be centered either 10 or 30 feet outside the U.S. Highway 12
ROW and require an acquisition of an easement of 47.5 and 67.5 feet in width. Low-growing
vegetation would be allowed to repopulate the easement after the line is constructed,but trees would
not be allowed to re-establish within the easement. Under this alternative approximately 0.6 to 0.9
I
acres of trees would be cleared,depending upon the location of the centerline in relation to
MnDOT ROW(Xcel Energy,personal communications,November 16 and 28,2011). The route in
this area would not cross any of the recreational paths,but would be visible to users of the park.
I More detailed information on vegetation impacts in provided in 5.14. Neither route would impact
the Park Gun Club.
I Mitigation Measures
The Xcel Energy Proposed Alternative would not directly impact recreational resources.
I ' The primary mitigation strategy to minimize recreation impacts is to minimize the amount of tree
clearing required and to shield the route from recreational users of the Baker Park Reserve. The
route for the Baker Park Reserve Alternative has been designed to overlap right-of-way with
IMnDOT to minimize the amount of tree clearing required.
As with any landowner,Xcel Energy would be required to compensate Three Rivers Park District or
I otherwise mitigate for the loss of vegetation and park land. Three Rivers Park District Policy XII
states diversion of Park District property must be in the best interest of the Park District and where
all other alternatives have been exhausted,and where diversion poses no threat to the Park District
I natural or recreation resources. Land and Water Conservation Fund rules and regulations may apply
to the proposed easement area. Property acquired and/or developed using Land and Water
Conservation Funds may not be wholly or partly converted to other than public outdoor recreation
Iuses without the approval of National Park Service pursuant to Section 6(f)(3) of the Land and
Water Conservation Fund Act and associated regulations.The conversion provisions of Section
6(f)(3),36 CFR Part 59,and these guidelines apply to each area or facility for which Land and Water
Conservation Fund assistance is obtained,regardless of the extent of participation of the program in
I
the assisted area or facility and consistent with the contractual agreement between National Park
Service and the State (Three Rivers Park District,personal communication,November 23,2011).
I
5.10 Land Based Economies
Land use and land cover in the project area consist primarily of rural residential,undeveloped
Iwetland and woodland,transportation and regional parkland.
While Hennepin County does have a strong agricultural base,the Project Area does not contain any
I
cultivated lands or pastures. No impacts to Agricultural uses are anticipated.
There are no federal, state,or locally designated forests or commercial logging operations located
within the Project location. Although there are forested areas along both routes, there is no forest
I
production in the Project location. No impacts to forestry are anticipated from the Project.
Vegetation clearing is discussed in Section 5.14.
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Although tourism does not comprise a major portion of the economy in the immediate project area,
Baker Park Reserve does offer camping and other recreational uses that might be considered
tourism destinations. Impacts to recreational uses in the Baker Park Reserve are discussed in
Section 5.9.
According to United States Geological Survey topographic maps the nearest mining resource,an '
inactive gravel pit,is located approximately four miles east of the Project. Because no existing
gravel,rock,and aggregate resources are being mined within or near the project route itself,no
impacts are anticipated. Because of the number of transportation resources,presence of residential
areas,and the Baker Park Reserve,it is unlikely that the discovery of currently unknown mineral
would result in development of such resources for extraction.
Mitigation Measures
Because no impacts to agricultural, forestry or mining resources are anticipated,no mitigation is
discussed. Potential impacts to tourism are related to recreational resources,mitigation measures are
discussed in Section 5.9.
5.11 Geology&Soils '
Bedrock in the project area varies from 100 to 400 feet below the surface. The project area is
underlain by Cambrian sandstone (MnDNR,2011). Soils are formed in deposits of glacial till left by
the Des Moines lobe.The soils in the project area are predominantly poorly drained hydric wetland
soils of the Klossner,Houghton,and Muskego associations (Xcel Energy,2011a).
No geologic impacts are anticipated from the Project. As excavation for foundations for both the '
substation and transmission structures would be approximately 25 feet.
Based on preliminary grading plans for the substation site,Xcel Energy estimates that grading would '
require approximately 15,700 cubic yards of cut and,depending upon the dimensions of a berm that
may be constructed at the substation site,between 3,800 and 6,100 cubic yards of fill (Xcel Energy,
personal communication,November 18,2011). Temporary short-term disturbance of soils would
result from site clearing and excavation activities at the substation site and structure locations,
pulling and tensioning sites,setup areas and during transport of crews,machinery,materials and
equipment over access routes (primarily along transmission right-of-way). '
Construction activities can increase erosion by removing vegetation,disturbing soil and exposing
sediment to the elements. The eroded soil can quickly become a sedimentation problem when wind
and rain carry the soil off the construction site and sediment is deposited in surface waters unless
stabilized. In addition to erosion,the hydric soils in the project area are susceptible to compaction
Mitigation Measures '
Typical conditions of a high-voltage transmission line route permit require the applicant to utilize
erosion control techniques throughout the duration of the project to achieve vegetation
establishment and,ultimately, final stabilization. HVTL permits also typically require that contours
be graded so that all surfaces drain naturally,blend with the natural terrain,and are left in a
condition that will facilitate re-vegetation,provide for proper drainage,and prevent erosion. All
areas disturbed during construction of the facilities must be returned to their pre-construction
condition.
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All construction projects disturbing one acre or more are required to apply for a construction
I stormwater permit through the MPCA. The permit states that prior to submitting a permit
application,the owner must develop a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) for the
construction site. Xcel Energy would also be required to adhere to the terms and conditions of the
National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit and SWPPP. Erosion control
Imethods and Best Management Practices (BMPs) pursuant to MPCA requirements will be utilized to
minimize runoff during construction. Common mitigation measures employed in transmission
projects include:
U • Utilizing seed to establish temporary and permanent vegetative cover on exposed soil.The
Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) and MnDNR has researched various
seed mixes and has identified mixes for specific site characteristics and uses.
• Mulch may be applied to form a temporary and protective cover on exposed soils. Mulch
I can help retain moisture in the soil to promote vegetative growth,reduce evaporation,
insulate the soil,and reduce erosion.A common mulch material used is hay or straw.
I
• Erecting or using sediment control fences that are intended to retard flow, filter runoff,and
promote the settling of sediment out of runoff via ponding behind the sediment control.
Examples include biorolls,sandbags,and silt fences.
I • Using Erosion control blankets and turf reinforcement mats that are typically single or
multiple layer sheets made of natural(wood) and/or synthetic materials that provide
Istructural stability to bare surfaces and slopes.
Mitigation measures to minimize soil compaction include:
I
• Scheduling construction in areas of wet soils during frozen ground conditions.
• Using construction mats to minimize impacts to wet soils.
I5.12 Water Resources
I Potential impacts to both groundwater and surface water resources from transmission projects are
generally related to the construction phase.
Groundwater
IThe project area lies within the Metro Province that is generally described as containing sand
aquifers in thick sandy and dayey glacial drifts that are generally over 100 feet in depth overlying
I
Precambrian sandstone and Cretaceous bedrock. The sedimentary bedrock underlaying this
province provides good aquifer properties (MnDNR,2011).
IGroundwater information specific to the project area was obtained using information from the
MnDNR Waters Division and the MDH Minnesota County Well Index. A review of well
construction records in the vicinity of the Project shows wells are dug to a depth of between 100
and 200 feet (MDH,2007).
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PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 45
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Potential groundwater impacts from overhead transmission lines are typically associated with the
construction phase of the project and may result from structure placement or sedimentation release
into shallow aquifers from equipment vibration. Transmission structures will require excavation of
approximately 15 to 25 feet,depending on soil conditions. As such,the placement of the
transmission structures would not have an impact on the groundwater supply or domestic wells in
the area of the project.
The Project would not install any wells.
Surface Water
The proposed project area is located in the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District,which is part of
the Mississippi Watershed of the Upper Mississippi River Basin. The Upper Mississippi River Basin
is approximately 20,100 square miles in size and stretches from the Headwaters of the Mississippi to
the metro area. Drainage typically flows south towards the Mississippi River,the largest river in the
watershed (MPCA,2010).
Lakes located in theg
eneral vicinityof the project include Katrina Lake,located approximately 540
feet north of the Baker Park Reserve Route Alternative and Lake Classen,located approximately
4,000 miles east of the Project. Katrina Lake is identified as an impaired lake with a TMDL for
nutrients (MPCA,2009). Painter Creek is crossed by the Proposed Route.
Land that forms the transition from aquatic to terrestrial ecosystems along streams,lakes,and open
water wetlands are known as riparian areas. The MnDNR shoreland standards define riparian areas
as the land that is within 300 feet of a public waters watercourse and within 1,000 feet of the
ordinary high water level of a public water,lake,pond or flowage. Orono's shoreland overlay
district is discussed in Section 5.8.
During construction,there is the potential for sediment to reach surface waters due to ground
disturbances vegetation clearing,excavation,grading,and construction traffic. During the operation
of the Project,there is potential for runoff from the substation site to impact surface waters.
Minimum grading will be done around the pole sites. The graded area of the existing Orono
Substation is approximately 0.1 acres,the graded area of the replacement substation will include
approximately 1.4 acres,with an additional graded road area of approximately 0.2 acres. In addition
to the graded area,a berm to the west of the substation may be constructed to provide a visual
buffer between the substation and the homes to the west.
Mitigation Measures ,
Because no impacts to groundwater are anticipated from the Project,no Mitigation measures are
proposed.
HVTL permits issued by the Commission typically require that structures be located to span
watercourses,wetlands and floodplains to the extent practicable. Upon completion of construction
in a specific area route permit conditions require that contours be graded so that all surfaces drain
naturally,blend with the natural terrain,and are left in a condition that will facilitate re-vegetation,
provide for proper drainage,and prevent erosion. All areas disturbed during construction of the
facilities must be returned to their pre-construction condition. '
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I .
The Orono Shoreland Overlay District,discussed in Section 5.8,requires that structures be set back
I
a minimum of 100 feet from the OHWL tributaries such as Painter Creek.
Because construction of the Project require disturbing more than one of soil Xcel Energy will apply
for a NPDES construction stormwater permit and would prepare a SWPPP. All construction
Iprojects disturbing one acre or more are required to apply for a construction stormwater permit
through the MPCA. The permit states that prior to submitting a permit application,the owner must
develop a SWPPP for the construction site. HVTL permits require the Permittee to employ
erosion BMPs and to adhere to the terms and conditions of the NPDES permit and the Stormwater
Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPP) prepared for the Project for MPCA.
I Erosion control methods and BMPs pursuant to MPCA requirements will be utilized to minimize
runoff during substation construction are described in Section 5.11. In addition to erosion control
measures, fueling and lubricating far construction equipment away from waterways would ensure
I
that fuel and lubricants do not enter waterways.
5.13 Wetlands and Floodplains
IWetlands provide direct benefits to the environment and vary according to the type or class of
wetland and the season. Wetlands serve as floodwater detentions,provide nutrient assimilation and
sediment entrapment (water quality),and provide wildlife habitat. Wetlands are either protected
I federally under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act or by the State of Minnesota under the Wetland
Conservation Act.
I Larger wetland complexes as well as small isolated wetlands are located in and around the Project
site. Xcel Energy commissioned a wetland delineation of the 16 acre parcel within which the 1.2
acre Orono Substation would be located. The wetland area within the site was identified as a Type
I 3,Palustrine Emergent seasonally flooded (Xcel Energy,2011a). Neither the Xcel Energy Proposed
Route nor the Baker Park Reserve Route Alternative has been delineated for wetlands,information
on wetlands within those routes is from the National Wetland Inventory (NWI) developed by the
I United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is shown in Table 15. The NWI has not been
field verified for the routes outside the Xcel Energy property,but does provide a good start to
identify potential wetland areas.
ITable 15: NWI Wetlands within the Proposed Route
I Wetland Baker Park Alternative
Type* Xcel Proposed Route
Township Range Section
I
400 foot 75 Foot
75 Foot 400 Foot
ROW Route ROW Route
118 23 29 PEM 0.4 2.2 0.5 2.5
I 118 23 30 PEM 2.9 11.5 0.5 2.6
Total 3.3 13.6 1.0 5.2
* Based on the USFWS'Cowardin Classification System for wetlands.
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During the construction phase of the Project,there is the potential for temporary impacts to ,
wetlands as a result of ground disturbance related to grading,construction traffic,substation
construction,and placement of the transmission line structures. Although minimal grading of areas
around pole locations is expected,the substation site will be graded. Potential impacts to wetlands
will be limited to the area where the structures and line will be constructed and operated (Xcel
Energy,2011a). Based on a review of NWI data,approximately 1.0 and 3.3acres of wetlands are
located within the 75-foot-wide anticipated rights-of way of the Baker Park Reserve Route
Alternative and the Xcel Energy Proposed Routes respectively (Xcel Energy,personal
communication,November 21,2011).
Permanent impacts to wetlands would occur where structures must be located within wetland
boundaries. Xcel Energy has designed the replacement substation to avoid direct impacts to
wetlands. Depending on the delineated location of wetlands and the final location of the ROW,up
to five structures could potentially be placed in wetlands for both routes (Figure B-2). Each
structure would result in approximately 50 square feet of permanent wetland impacts per structure
or up to 250 square feet total (0.006 acres). '
The Project may require wetland and water resource approvals from the U.S.Army Corps of
Engineers (USAGE),MnDNR,Hennepin County and the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District.
Wetlands crossed by the Project may be jurisdictional to the USACE under Section 404 of the Clean
Water Act. Once a route is finalized and permitting requirement are determined,Xcel Energy will
submit the Minnesota Local/State/Federal Application Form for Water/Wetland Projects to the
USACE's St.Paul District,MnDNR and,if needed, the Hennepin County Soil and Water
Conservation District. Xcel Energy has stated that they anticipate that authorization for the Project
from MnDNR would come,if granted,under the USACE's General Permit/Letter of Permission
permitting program(Xcel Energy,2011a). As part of the permitting process,Xcel Energy will be
required to submit sufficient materials for the USAGE to make its jurisdictional determination for
impacted wetlands. The joint application will also be subject to MnDNR,Hennepin County Soil
and Water Conservation District,and Minnehaha Creek Watershed District review and regulation
under the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act. A license from the MnDNR is required to cross
public water wetlands.
Under the Clean Water Act,Section 401 water quality certification is required for activities that may
result in a discharge to waters of the United State. MPCA administers Section 401 water quality
certification on non-tribal lands in Minnesota. If the USAGE authorizes the Project under its
General Permit/Letter of Permission permitting program,the MPCA waives its Section 401 Water
Quality Certification authority (Xcel Energy,2011a).
The Project is located within the 100year flood lairs of Lake Katrina and Painter Creek mapped
Project floodplains
the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA,2011). Although the Project would install
several transmission structures in a 100 year floodplain,the function of the floodplain would not be
affected.
Mitigation Measures
The Project will require a MnDNR License for Utility to Cross Protected Waters from the MnDNR
Division of Waters because the Project passes over and across wetlands designated as state public
waters (unnamed 27-916 W and 27-917 W). The MnDNR license to cross Protected Waters would
outline mitigation measures.
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Using information from the wetland delineation of the substation site,Xcel Energy has designed the
substation to avoid direct impacts to wetlands from the substation. Following the issuance of a
route permit Xcel Energy will perform a wetland delineation along the route to determine wetland
' locations and minimize impacts from the Project. Standard erosion control measures identified in
the MPCA Stormwater BMP Manual,such as using silt fencing to minimize impacts on adjacent
' water resources would be followed (Xcel Energy,2011a). Practices may include containing
excavated material,protecting exposed soil,and stabilizing restored soil.
In its route permit application,Xcel Energy has proposed the following mitigation measures:
• Spanning wetlands to the greatest extent possible;
• Assembling structures on upland areas before they are brought to the site for installation;
' • Avoid crossing wetlands with construction equipment to the extent possible;
• Construction during frozen ground conditions in wetlands to the extent possible;
• Construction crews will attempt to access the wetland with the least amount of physical
' impact to the wetland(i.e.,shortest route) and will access poles near or in wetlands from
roadways whenever possible to minimize travel through wetland areas;
• When construction during winter is not possible,construction mats (wooden mats or a
' composite mat system) would be used to protect wetland vegetation;and
• Use of standard erosion control measures identified in the MPCA Stormwater BMP Manual,
such as suing silt fencing to minimize impacts on adjacent water resources. (Xcel Energy,
2011a)
' Additional mitigation measures could include:
• No staging or stringing set up areas will be placed within or adjacent to wetlands or water
' resources,as practicable.
• Restoration of wetland vegetation as soon as possible following construction.
5.14 Flora
The proposed project is located in the Big Woods Subsection of the Eastern Broadleaf Forest
' Ecological Province of Minnesota (MnDNR,2011a). At the time of European settlement,this
subsection was characterized by large blocks of oak woodland and maple-bassleaf forest. Land use
along the routes reviewed in this document is predominated by residential uses,which incorporates a
' large block of undeveloped association land,wetlands,and the Baker Park Reserve,which contains a
remnant of the pre-settlement Big Woods vegetation. Rare or sensitive plant species and habitat are
discussed in Section 5.16.
The Project would directly impact to vegetation would be through tree clearing. The Xcel Energy
Proposed Route would remove approximately 2.2 acres of trees;depending upon the route
' alignment in relation to the MnDOT ROW,the Baker Park Reserve Route Alternative remove
approximately 2.0 to 2.3 acres of trees (Xcel Energy,personal communications,November 16 and
28,2011). No impacts to identified native plant communities or sensitive plant species are
anticipated.
' Mitigation Measures
The primary mitigation strategy to minimize impacts to vegetation is minimizing the extent of tree
' clearing. Xcel Energy has attempted to minimize the need for tree clearing by overlapping railroad
and highway easements to the extent possible.
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5.15 Fauna
Wildlife within the Project area consists primarily of deer, small mammals,waterfowl,raptors,and
perching birds. These species are typical of the land use in the Project area,which is a mixture of
rural residential,open wetland,and woodland within the Baker Park Reserve. Threatened and
endangered species are discusses in Section 5.16.
Wildlife could temporarily be displaced and small amounts of habitat could be lost from the project
area during construction. Because similar tree and wetland habitats are found adjacent to both
routes evaluated,it is likely that these species will only be displaced a short distance and would not
incur population level effects due to construction of the transmission line. In the case of the
Project,the location is dominated by existing transportation and utility corridors as well as
residences and,therefore,these species are likely already acclimatized to human development.
No permanent impacts to wildlife are anticipated.
The primary potential impact presented to fauna by transmission lines is the potential injury and
death of migratory birds such as raptors,waterfowl,and other large bird species. The electrocution
of large birds,such as raptors,is more commonly associated with small distribution lines than large
transmission lines. Electrocution occurs when birds with large wingspans come in contact with two
conductors or with a conductor and a grounding device. Xcel Energy's transmission line design
standards and adherence to current industry standards outlined in the Avian Powerline Action Committee
Report(APPLIC,2006) would provide for adequate spacing to eliminate the risk of raptor
electrocution. As such,electrocution is not a concern related to the project.
Avian collisions are also a recognized possibility with the construction and placement of a new '
transmission line. The species of birds more commonly involved in collisions are large-bodied and
have long wing spans such as swans,geese,ducks,herons,pelicans,and cranes. Collision frequency
may increase when a new transmission line is located between agricultural fields that serve as feeding
areas,wetlands,or open water,which serve as resting areas.
Mitigation Measures
Xcel Energy has been working with various state and federal agencies over the past 20 years to
address avian issues. Company personnel work to address problem areas as quickly and efficiently
as possible. In 2002,Xcel Energy Inc.'s operating companies entered into a voluntary memorandum
of understanding to work together to address avian issues through its territory (Xcel Energy,2011a).
The USFWS and MnDNR both recommend installation of bird flight diverters along the
transmission line (Xcel Energy, 2011a). In most cases, the shield wire of an overhead transmission
line is the most difficult part of the structure for birds to see. Xcel Energy has successfully reduced
collisions on certain transmission lines by marking the shield wires with Swan Flight Diverters,
which are pre-formed spiral shaped devices made of polyvinyl chloride that are wrapped around the
shield wire (Xcel Energy,2011a).
5.16 Rare and Unique Species and Habitat
The MnDNR's Natural Heritage and Nongame Research Program and the USFWS were consulted
to determine the presence of any federal-and state-listed endangered,threatened,and special
concern species in addition to any rare and unique native plant communities or Minnesota County
Biological Survey sites within or near the proposed project area(Xcel Energy,2011a).
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The USFWS indicated in correspondence with Xcel Energy that there are no federally-listed or
proposed species and/or designated or proposed critical habitat within the action area of the Project
(Xcel Energy,2011a).
' As of March 31,2011,no rare flora features have been identified along either route. The natural
heritage database search did identify two native plant communities outside of the routes but within
the search area (Appendix B-5).
' Because both routes alternatives avoid known native plant communities and rare plant species,no
impacts to sensitive plant communities or species are anticipated.
' Trumpeter Swans were identified as being within the Project area. The greatest concern with
trumpeter swans is the potential for collision with transmission lines,as discussed in Section 5.15.
' Mitigation Measures
The primary technique to minimize the potential for impacts to native plant communities is
avoidance through routing. Both Routes avoid impacts to identified plant communities.
' As discussed in Section 5.15,installation of Bird Flight Diverters can minimize potential for avian
collisions with transmission lines.
5.17 Archaeological&Historic Resources
Impacts to archaeological resources could result from construction activities along the route and
could include:
• Damage to surface soils throughout the Project area from heavy rubber-tread or metal-
tracked vehicle operation.
' • Subsurface excavations necessary to remove old wood power poles or install new poles.
• Damage to surface soils from dragging heavy objects (e.g.,power poles).
' • Damage to surface soils through grubbing,stump removal and grading.
In response to a request from the Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO),Xcel
' Energy commissioned a Phase Ia background research and literature review to better understand the
existing archaeological and historic resources that may be affected by the Project (Xcel Energy,
2011a). The Phase Ia report did not identify any archaeological site or inventoried standing
structure within either route.
No known archaeological sites were identified within the route,and the Phase Ia report anticipated
' that the potential for the Project to impact undiscovered archaeological sites as low because of the
Project's location within the existing Orono Substation site and along existing transportation
corridors or in areas already disturbed by residential development. The Phase Ia report did
' recommend,and the SHPO concurred,that archaeological surveys be performed in two areas within
the Project area.
' As no historic structures have been identified within or near either route,no physical impacts to
historic standing structures in the Project area are anticipated.
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Mitigation Measures
Avoidance of archaeological and historic architectural properties is the preferred Mitigation measure.
The Project avoids historic architectural properties.
Although the potential for the Project to impact undiscovered archaeological sites as low because of
the Project's location within the existing Orono Substation site and along existing transportation
corridors or in areas already disturbed by residential development,Xcel Energy will contract for
archaeological surveys to be performed in two areas within the Project area,as identified by SHPO,
to identify any previously unknown archaeological resources (Xcel Energy,2011a).
In the event of an unanticipated discovery of cultural resources during Project construction,Xcel
Energy will stop construction activities and consult with a professional archaeologist and the SHPO '
to determine the proper course of action. If a cultural resource or feature is determined to be
potentially eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places,it will be avoided or
mitigated before construction can resume (Xcel Energy,2011a).
5.18 Interference
The Corona from transmission line conductors can generate electromagnetic noise at frequencies
that may potentially impact electronic communication and similar devices,including radios,
televisions,microwave communications,and Global Positioning System (GPS)-based agricultural
navigation systems. No impacts to electronic devices are anticipated as a result of the proposed
project.
Radio Interference
Corona from transmission line conductors can generate electromagnetic"noise"in the radio
frequency range.This noise may cause broadband interference at the same frequencies that many
communication and media signals are transmitted.This noise can cause interference with the
reception of these signals depending on the frequency and strength of the signal. Loose hardware
on the transmission line may also cause interference.
AM radio frequency interference typically occurs immediately under a transmission line and
dissipates rapidly to either side. If radio interference from transmission line corona does occur,
satisfactory reception from AM radio stations can be restored by appropriate modification of(or
addition to) the receiving antenna system.
FM radio receivers usually do not pick up interference from transmission lines because corona-
generated radio frequency noise currents decrease in magnitude with increasing frequency and are
quite small in the FM broadcast band (88-108 Mega Hertz);and the excellent interference rejection
properties inherent in FM radio systems make them virtually immune to amplitude type
disturbances.
Television
Both digital and satellite television are expected to have little interference from corona generated
noise,but may experience other types of interference.
Compared to analog broadcasts,digital television broadcast frequencies are high enough that any '
electromagnetic noise currents,if they were to exist at all,would be very small.
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An outdoor antenna can be used to solve issues with multipath reflections.
' Satellite television is transmitted in the K„Band of radio frequency and is not very susceptible to
corona generated noise.
' Line of sight for satellite television users could be obstructed by a transmission line structure. Line
of sight can usually be restored by moving the consumer satellite dish to a slightly different location.
' Internet and Cellular Phones
Wireless internet and cellular phones use frequencies in the ultra-high frequency(UHF) range. The
specific UHF frequency used by a cellular phone would depend on the technology(global system for
' mobile communications (GSM),3G, etc.) of the provider. All radio frequencies used for both
cellular phones and wireless internet are high enough that the effect of corona generated noise near
the line would be negligible,no impacts are anticipated.
' GPS-Based Navigation Systems
Corona-generated noise and not the EMF from transmission lines could be a source of
interference for GPS systems. Satellite GPS signals are broadcast at 1.57542 GHz (L1 signal) and
1.2276 GHz (L2 signal) and are high enough that they would have minimal interference.
Differential correction signal beacons on the nationwide Coast Guard network transmit at
frequencies around 283-325 kHz and are susceptible to electrical noise. Interference with correction
signals could result in reduced accuracy while operating directly under a high-voltage transmission
line.
Impacts to GPS systems are typically an issue in agricultural areas because of concerns with
interference with farm machinery. The Project is not located in an agricultural area and no impacts
with GPS systems are anticipated.
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6 PERMITS &APPROVALS '
Should a route permit be issued for the project,the applicant may be required to apply for the
various local, state,and federal permits listed in this section. '
Table 16: Summary of Permits and Approvals
Permit Approvals Jurisdiction
Federal Approvals ,
Section 404 Permit,Clean Water Act
(Local/State/Federal Application for Water/Wetland Army Corps of Engineers '
Projects,for discharge of fill due to placement of poles in
wetlands). Section 106 Review
Minnesota State Approvals ,
License to Cross Public Waters or State Lands MnDNR—Lands and Minerals
Utility Permit(Road Crossing Permits to cross or occupy MnDOT 1
state trunk highway road right of way)
NPDES/SDS Permit (construction) MPCA 1
Section 401,Clean Water Act MPCA
Minnesota Local/Regional Approvals '
Land Permits,including road crossing/right of way
permits (may be required to occupy lands such as
parklands,watershed districts,and other publicly-owned County,Township
land)
Wetland Permit County,Watershed District
Road Crossing,Over-width Loads,Driveway/Access
Permits County,Township
Driveway Permit County,City,Township
Culvert Extension/Connection County
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' 7 ROUTE COMPARISONS
In the Alternative Routing Process,applicants are not required to provide any routes for review
' other than the route proposed in the Route Permit Application. However,the scoping process
allows citizens or local units of government to propose alternatives. In this case,one route
alternative investigated by Xcel Energy during their internal routing process was proposed through
the scoping process and carried forward into the Scoping Decision for further consideration.
Xcel Energy proposes to construct a new 0.6-mile long 115 kV overhead transmission line to be
' located in the northeastern part of the city of Orono. As described in the route permit application
the new transmission line route would exit an expanded Orono Substation,head north for 866 feet
as a double circuit line and then turning to the northwest along the southern edge of the BNSF
' railroad right-of-way for approximately 1,205 feet to the existing 115 kV transmission Line 0831.
At this point,the Project would replace three existing transmission structures and approximately
1,030 feet of single circuit 115 transmission Line 0831with two new structures and approximately
' 1,095 feet of single circuit 115 kV transmission line,re-routing the existing line off of two residential
parcels and onto adjacent HDHOA property adjacent to the BNSF railroad. A new double-circuit
corner structure would connect the single-and double-circuit portions of the project(Figure 1).
The Project would also install fiber optic ground wire along the entire length of the Project.
The Baker Park Reserve Alternative,as described in Section 3,is the same as the Xcel Energy
' Proposed Route except that,rather than following the BNSF railroad to the northwest after it exits
the Xcel Energy substation parcel it crosses the railroad and U.S. Highway 12 before turning to the
northwest approximately to follow the highway right-of-way northwest for approximately 0.2 miles
through the Baker Park Reserve. The anticipated centerline in this area would be located
approximately 10 to 30 feet outside of the highway right-of-way and would either parallel the
existing distribution line or move the existing distribution line to the new structures for this
segment.
' Both the Xcel Energy Proposed Route and the Baker Park Reserve Alternative would be very similar
in their potential impacts to the items evaluated in this EA. Both routes are similar in length,
' approximately 0.6 miles in total,and vary for only approximately 0.2 miles,the Xcel Energy
Alternative following the south side of the BNSF railroad and U.S. Highway 12,while the Baker
Park Reserve Alternative would cross to the north side of U.S. Highway 12 before crossing back
again. For both routes,the nearest homes would be approximately 180 feet from the Orono
Substation and 275 feet from the single circuit portion of the transmission line. Both routes parallel
existing railroad and road right-of-way for a significant portion of their respective routes and would
' cross the BNSF railroad and U.S. Highway 12 at least once;the Baker Park Reserve Route
Alternative would have an additional crossing of the railroad and highway directly north of the
substation. The disparity between routes is realized when looking at the following: transportation
' crossings,tree removal,wetlands,and recreation. A comparison summary of the three routes and
their potential impacts is presented in Table 17.
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Table 17: Route Comparison I
Xcel Energy Baker Park Reserve I Issue Comparison of Routes a
Proposed Route Route Alternative
Route Length 0.6 miles 0.6 miles same
Effect on Human Settlement
I
Distance from
substation to nearest 180 feet 180 feet Same
home
I
Distance from
substation to nearest 275 feet 275 feet Same
home
Displacement No impact No impact Same
I
Noise Temporary/No impact Temporary/No impact Same
Viewshed would include new Viewshed would include new
and incrementally taller and incrementally taller
I
Aesthetics Same
transmission line structures; transmission line structures;
expanded substation expanded substation
Cultural Values No impact No impact Same I Addition of approximately 940
New structure in Baker Park feet of transmission line and
Reserve within the same up to 5 new structures within Baker Park Reserve Route I
Recreation ROW would cause Baker Park Reserve; Alternative would have more
incremental change to establishment of a new ROW direct impacts on Baker Park
viewshed. of up to 67.5 feet. Removal of Reserve
0.6 to 0.9 acres of trees in
I
Baker Park Reserve
One crossing of BNSF Baker Park Reserve Route
Transportation Railroad and U.S.Highway Two crossings of BNSF Alternative would one additional
P y Railroad and U.S.Highway 12
12 crossing of railroad and highway
I
Utilities No impact No impact Same
Public Health and No impact No impact Same
Safety
I
Effects on Land Based Economies
Agriculture No impact No impact Same
Forestry No impact No impact Same
I
Tourism No impact No impact Same
Mining No impact No impact Same
Archaeological No identified resources,but No identified resources,but I
Resources survey recommended at survey recommended at Same
substation site substation site
Historic Resources No identified resources No identified resources Same I
Effects on Natural Resources
Air Quality No impact No impact Same
Water Quality No impact No impact Same
I
Surface Water One crossing One crossing Same
Crossings
Up to 5 structures in wetland; Up to 5 structures in wetland; - I
Wetlands approximately 250 square feet approximately 250 square feet Same
of permanent impact of permanent impact
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I Xcel Energy Baker Park Reserve
Issue Comparison of Routes a
Proposed Route Route Alternative
Floodplains Located in floodplain Located in floodplain Same
Approximately 2.2 acres of Depending upon alignment,
Flora trees removed Approximately 2.0 to 2.3 acres Similar
of trees removed
IFauna Temporary/No impact Temporary/No impact Same
Rare and Unique 1 Threatened Species 1 Threatened Species Same
Natural Resources
I Sharing of Existing
Rights-of-way
Transportation 0.34 miles(57 percent) 0.34 miles(57 percent) Same
I Electrical 0 0 Same
Cross Country 0.25 miles(42 percent) 0.25 mile(42 percent) Same
I
$5.3 million for $5.4 million for Baker Park Reserve Route
construction;$300$500 construction;$300-$500 Alternative construction cost is
Costs approximately$100,000 more
per mile per year for per mile per year for than Xcel Energy Proposed
maintenance maintenance Route
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8 REFERENCES
Much of the information contained within this document was provided by the applicant or the
applicant's representatives in Xcel's application to the Public Utilities Commission for a route
permit,June 7,2011 (available for viewing at:
http://energyfacilities.puc.state.mn.us/Docket.html?Id=32082 '
Additional information sources include:
Avian Powerline Interaction Committee (APLIC). 2006. Suggested Practices for Avian Protection on
Powerlines:The State of the Art in 2006. Edison Electric Institute,APLIC,and the California Energy
Commission. '
City of Orono. n.d. Orono Municipal Code.
http://librarv.municodc.com/index.aspx?clientlD=13094&statelD=23&statename=Minnesota,
(accessed November 8,2011).
City of Orono. 2010a. Community Management Plan.
http://www.ci.orono.mn.us/index.asp?Type=B BASIC&SEC=%7B6E351914-CB84-4652-A487-
C646F6AFBD95%7D . (accessed November 8,2011).
City of Orono. 2010b. 2030 Land Use Plan Map, '
http://docs.ci.orono.mn.us/MapsforCity/CMPPART3BMap3B62030LandUsePlanasrevised61610.
pdf. (accessed November 8,2011)
City of Orono. 2011. Shoreland Overlay District Map.
http://docs.ci.orono.mn.us/Maps forCity/CMPPART3AMAP3A7ShorelandOverlayREVISED2.pd
f. (accessed November 8,2011) ,
Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI). 1982. Transmission Line Reference Book. Second Edition
Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI). 2004. Electromagnetic Interference with Implanted Medical
Devices,
Fick,R.J. and T.C. Surbrook. n.d. "A review of stray voltage research: Effects on livestock." 1
Prepared by the Michigan Agricultural Electric Council.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Map Service Center. 2011. Hennepin County Flood
Zone Maps. http://msc.fema.gov/webapp/ (Accessed October 12,2011)
Long Island Power Authority. 2005. Magnetic Fields Around Your Home, '
http://www.lipower.org/residential/safety/emfhtml, (Accessed November,21,2011).
Minnesota Department of Commerce. 2011a. Transcript for Public Scoping Meeting Orono August 10, '
2011. September 7,2011.
https://www.edockets.state.mn.us/EFiling/edockets/searchDocuments.do?method=showPoup&d
ocumentld={5020B533-343B-4FF6-924D-E96D8DBOF38A}&documentTitle=20119-66024-01
(accessed October 10,2011)
Environmental Assessment
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Minnesota Department of Commerce. 2011b. Public Scoping Comments Received.
' https://www.edockets.state.mn.us/EFiling/edockets/searchDocuments.do?method=showPoup&d
ocumentId={913AA026-8C68-47CE-9C08-331DC58918E5}&documentTitle=20119-66024-02
(accessed October 10,2011)
Minnesota Department of Commerce. 2011c. Rights-of-Way and Easements for Energy Facility
Construction and Operation.
http://energyfacilities.puc.state.mn.us/documents/DOC%20Easements%20Fact%20Sheet%206.3.
11.pdf (accessed October 10, 2011)
Minnesota Department of Commerce. 2009. Draft Environmental Impact Statement of the Brookings to
' Hampton 345 kV Transmission Project.
http://energyfacilities.puc.state.mn.us/resource.html?Id=25589 (accessed November 28,2011)
' Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). 2002. The Minnesota State Interagency Working Group
on EMF Issues. 2002. A White Paper on Electric and Magnetic Field(EMF)Policy and Mitigation Options.
http://energy facilities.puc.state.mn.us/documents/EMF%20White%20Paper%20-
1 %20MN%20Workgroup%20Sep%202002.pdf (accessed November 28,2011)
Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). 2007. County Well Index Online. http://mdh-
' agua.health.state.mn.us/cwi/cwiViewer.htm (accessed October 10,2011)
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR). 2011a. Ecological Classification System-
Big Woods Ecological Subsection, http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/ecs/222Mb/index.html (accessed
October 28,2011).
' Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MnDNR). 2011b. Groundwater Provinces.
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/groundwater/provinces/index.html (accessed October 10,2011)
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency(MPCA). 2001. Map of Basins and Watersheds in Minnesota.
thttp://www.pca.state.mn.us/index.php/view-document.html?gid=14171 (accessed October 11,
2011)
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA).2008. A Guide to Noise Control in Minnesota,Acoustical
Properties,Measurement,Analysis and Regulation.
' Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). 2010. Upper Mississippi River Basin.
http://www.pca.state.mn.us/index.php/water/water-types-and-programs/surface-water/basins-
and-watersheds/upper-mississippi-river-basin/upper-mississippi-river-basin.html(accessed October
' 11,2011)
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency(MPCA). 2009. Map of Impaired Waters, Watershed Districts and
' Watershed Management Organisations in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area,Minnesota.
http://www.pca.state.mn.us/index.php/view-document.html?gid=14221 (accessed October 11,
2011)
' Minnesota Public Utilities Commission. 2009. In the Matter of the Application of Xcel Energy fora Route
Permit for a 115/69 Kilovolt Transmission Line Rebuild from a Proposed West New Ulm Substation to the
Environmental Assessment
PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 59
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Existing Fort Ridge!),Substation, Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law, and Order Issuing a Route Permit to Xcel
Energy for the 115/69 Kilovolt Transmission Line Rebuild and Substation (Docket No. E002/TL-08-956).
http://energyfacilities.puc.state.mn.us/documents/19744/08-
956%20PUC%20Permit%20ORDER.pdf(accessed November 28,2011)
Minnesota Public Utilities Commission. 2010. In the Matter of the Application of Great River Energy fora
Route Permit for the Potato Lake 115 kV Transmission Line and Substation in Park Rapids,Minnesota,
Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law, and Order Issuing a Route Permit to Great River Energy for a 115 Kilovolt
Transmission Line and Associated Facilities(Docket No. ET2/TL-10-86).
Myr//energyfacilities iuc.state.mn.us/documents/26124/PUC ORDER 111 710.pdf(accessed November 28,
2011)
National Cancer Institute. 2005. Magnetic Field Exposure and Cancer.Questions and Answers Fact Sheet,
111
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/magnetic-fields (accessed November 25,
2011)
National Institutes of Health. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS).2002.
EMF Electric and Magnetic Fields Associated with the use of Electrical Power.
Public Service Commission of Wisconsin,Final Environmental Impact Statement on the Arrowhead—
Weston Electric Transmission Line Project, Volume 1, Docket 05-CE-113. 2000.
Scholten,A.,S.Joosten,and J. Silney. 2004. Unipolar Cardiac Pacemakers in Electromagnetic Fields of High
Voltage Overhead lines. FEMU,University Hospital,Aachen,Germany.
Toivonen,L.,J.Valjus,M. Hongisto,and M. Ritta. 1991. The Influence of Elevated 50 Hz Electric
and Magnetic Fields on Implanted Cardiac Pacemakers:The Role of the Lead Configuration and
Programming of the Sensitivity. Blackwell Publishing Limited.Helsinki,Finland.
United States Census Bureau. 2011. State, County, and CityQuickfacts: http://quickfacts.census.gov.
United States Department of Energy,Bonneville Power Administration. Corona and Field Effects
Program, Version 3.0(Computer Program),Vancouver,Washington.
United States Environmental Protection Agency. 2008. Clean Air Act,National Ambient Air Quality
Primary Standards(NAAQS). http://www.epa.gov/air/criteria.html#5 . (accessed November 23,
2011).
United States Environmental Protection Agency,Office of Radiation And Indoor Air (6603J)
(EPA). 1992. Electric Magnetic Fields In Your Environment. http://wxvw.web-
pub.com/library/brochure/emf.html(accessed November 25,2011). '
Xcel Energy. (2011 a).Northern State Power Company Application to the Minnesota Public Utilities
Commission for a Route Permit: Orono Substation Replacement and New 115 kV Transmission Line Project. '
http://energyfacilities.puc.state.mn.us/resource.html?Id=32085 (accessed October 10,2011)
Xcel Energy. (2011 b). Comment Letter on Scope of Environmental Assessment.
https://www.edockets.state.mn.us/EFiling/edockets/searchDocuments.do?method=showPoup&d
ocumcntId={8EA67E81-D69F-4EFB-B61A-B3A57744AF75}&documentTitle=20119-66015-01
Environmental Assessment '
PUC Docket E002/TL-11-223 Page 60
Xcel Energy,Great River Energy. (2011). Application to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission for a
' Route Permit: Hollydale Project. http://energyfacilities.puc.state.mn.us/resource.html?Id=32122
(accessed November 18,2011)
World Health Organization (WHO). 1999. "What are Electromagnetic Fields?"Health and
' Environment Briefing Pamphlet,Series 32. Website http://www.who.int/peh-
emf/about/WhatisEMF/en/ (accessed November 23,2011)
World Health Organization (WHO),Radiation and Environmental Health,Department of
Protection of the Human Environment. 2002. Establishing a Dialogue on Risks from Electromagnetic
Fields. . http://www.who.int/peh-emf/publications/en/emf final 300dpi ALL.pdf (accessed
' November 23,2011)
World Health Organization (WHO). 2007.Electromagnetic Fields and Public Health:
Exposure to Extremely Low Frequency Fields. Fact Sheet No. 322.
http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs322/en/index.html (accessed November 23,2011)
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' MINNESOTA
DEPARTMENT OF
L _46COMMERCE
' In the Matter of the Application for a HVTL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Route Permit for the Orono Substation SCOPING DECISION DOCUMENT
Expansion and New 115 kV Transmission Line PUC DOCKET NO.E002/TL-11-223
' Project.
INTRODUCTION
' The above matter has come before the Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Commerce
(Department) for a decision on the scope of the environmental assessment(EA)to be prepared
on the Orono Substation Expansion and New 115 kV Transmission Line Project proposed by
Xcel Energy.
' PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Xcel Energy proposes to construct the Orono Substation Expansion and new 115 kV
' Transmission Line Project(Project). As proposed,the Project would replace the existing 69 kV
Orono Substation with a new 115 kV substation at the same location,but with a larger footprint.
The Project would connect the expanded substation to the existing Xcel Energy 115 kV
' transmission line 0831 through a new double circuit 115 kV transmission lines of approximately
2,040 feet. The Project, as proposed,would also remove approximately 1,030 feet of 115 kV
transmission line and replace it with approximately 1,100 feet of new single circuit 115 kV
' transmission line. While not part of the Route Permit requested by Xcel Energy, approximately
400 feet of the existing Great River Energy 69 kV transmission line BD would be rerouted
around the new Orono Substation.
Xcel Energy proposes to use steel single-pole structures with spans of approximately 300 to 500
feet between poles; structure heights are anticipated to range from 70 to 90 feet for the single-
circuit structures to 75 to 115 feet for the double-circuit structures. Xcel Energy is requesting a
route width of approximately 400 feet, or 200 feet either side of the proposed alignment shown
in the Application maps. The anticipated right-of-way for the new transmission line would be 75
' feet.
The Project is located entirely within the city of Orono in Hennepin County. Xcel estimates the
total Project cost to be approximately$5.3 million dollars.
' In its application,Xcel Energy included a description of four alternative routes that were
considered,but ultimately rejected. Xcel Energy indicates that the Proposed Route,when
compared to the alternatives,minimizes impacts to existing residences,provides greater
' This document can be made available in alternative formats(i.e.large print or audio)by calling 651-296-0391
(voice). Persons with hearing or speech disabilities may call us through Minnesota Relay at 1-800-627-3529 or by
dialing 711.
Energy Facility Permitting
Scoping Decision Document
PUC Docket No.E002/TL-11-223
opportunity to share or parallel existing railroad rights-of-way,minimizes transportation '
crossings, and minimizes impacts to the Baker Park Nature Preserve.'
PURPOSE
Xcel Energy indicates in its route permit application that the proposed project is intended to
improve local and system reliability,reduce the risk of overloads, and allow for additional load
growth in the future.
REGULATORY BACKGROUND
A high-voltage transmission line route permit application for the project was filed by Xcel
Energy on June 7, 2011, and accepted by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission
(Commission)on June 30,2011. The route permit will be reviewed under the alternative review
process,pursuant to the Power Plant Siting Act(Minnesota Statues 216E)and Minnesota Rules
7850.2800 to 7850.3900. Under the alternative permitting process the Commission has six
months from the date the application was accepted as complete to make a decision on the route
permit. '
SCOPING PROCESS
Scoping is the first step in the process after application acceptance. The scoping process has two
primary purposes: 1)to ensure that the public has a chance to participate in determining what
routes and issues are studied in the EA, and 2)to help focus the EA on the most important issues
surrounding the route permit decision. This scope identifies potential human and environmental
issues that will be addressed in the EA. The scope also presents an anticipated schedule of the
environmental review process. '
Public Scoping Meeting
EFP staff held a public information and environmental assessment scoping meeting on August '
10, 2011, at the Orono City Hall in Orono,Minnesota. The meeting provided members of the
public an opportunity to learn about the proposed project and the state's high-voltage
transmission line route permitting process, review the applicant's route permit application, ask
questions,provide comments, and identify potential impacts and route alternatives to be
considered in the scope of the environmental assessment. Approximately seven members of the
public attended the meeting.
A court reporter was present at the public meeting and transcribed questions asked and
comments made by the public, as well as responses from EFP staff and Xcel Energy. In total,
'Xcel Energy,Northern States Power Company Application to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission for a
Route Route Permit—Orono Substation Replacement and New 115 kV Transmission Line Project,Appendix G,
June 7,2011. eDocket 20116-63311-08
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three people provided oral comments and/or asked questions about the proposed project. Topics
and issues raised by the public at the meeting included: visual impact, structure heights,possible
future expansion, extent of the cleared area, alternate substation locations, and a route alternative
through Baker Park Preserve to minimize impacts to residences.2
Public Comments
' A public comment period, ending on August 26, 2011,provided the public an opportunity to
submit comments to EFP staff via e-mail, fax,U.S. Mail or online on issues and alternative
routes and alignments for consideration in the scope of the EA. Four comment letters were
received by the close of the comment period.3 Xcel Energy also submitted a comment letter on
September 7,2011, addressing alternative routes and substation sites proposed during the
scoping period.4
A letter from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources(DNR)raised issues such as the
wetland impacts,tree removal, impacts to the Baker Park Preserve and potential impacts to
trumpeter swans. The DNR also indicates a preference for the Proposed Route or Route
Alternative 1 described in the application, as it appears,based on the information contained in
the application,that these routes would result in the fewest environmental impacts. DNR did
recommended further coordination to minimize impacts to Painter Creek and use of bird flight
diverters to minimize the risk of bird collisions.
The city of Orono submitted comments outlining issues they wanted to see addressed in the EA.
These issues include: aesthetic impacts, relationship of the Project to the land use and planning,
' project purpose and need, impacts to vegetation and habitat, impacts to cultural and sensitive
ecological resources, impact to wetlands and water resources,plans for management of
stormwater runoff,traffic,noise and air pollution, and cumulative potential effects from the
' Project. The letter did not propose any alternative routes or identify a preferred alternative.
Xcel Energy's letter proposed use of Y-frame structures at two locations and requests that the
' EA evaluate the proposed Y-frame structures.
Michael Kuruvilla, a resident of the Huntington Farm neighborhood and president of the Hunt
' Farm Home Owner's association, submitted comments expressing concern with the location of
the substation, impacts to wetlands, health and safety impacts from the Project, and economic
impacts to landowners from the Project. Mr. Kuruvilla proposed four additional substations
' locations; these locations are addressed below.
The scoping meeting comment report and each comment letter are available for viewing and
downloading on the project website maintained by the Commission at:
' 2Public Information and Environmental Scoping Meeting Comments,eDocket Id.20119-66024-01.
s Environmental Assessment Scoping Comments. eDocket Id.20119-66024-02.
4 Xcel Energy Comment Letter on Scope of Environmental Assessment. eDocket Id. 20119-66015-01.
' 3 of 9
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http://energyfacilities.puc.state.mn.us/Docket.html?Id=32082 or on the eDockets website at: '
https://edockets.state.mn.us/EFiling/search.jsp, select"11"for Year and"223"for Number.
MATTERS TO BE ADDRESSED
Having reviewed the matter, consulted with EFP staff, and in accordance with Minnesota Rule '
7850.3700, I hereby make the following scoping decision:
The issues outlined below will be identified and described in the environmental assessment for
the proposed Orono 115 kV project. The assessment will describe the project and current setting
of the proposed project area. It will also provide information on the potential impacts the
proposed project could have as they relate to the topics outlined in this scoping decision
document, including possible mitigation for identified impacts, identification of irretrievable
commitment of resources and permits from other government entities that may be required.
I. GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSAL
A. Project Description
B. Purpose of the Transmission Line
C. Project Location
D. Route Description
1. Route Width
2. Right-of-Way
E. Project Cost
II. REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
A. Certificate of Need
B. High-Voltage Transmission Line Route Permits
C. Environmental Review Process
III. ENGINEERING AND OPERATION DESIGN
A. Transmission Line Conductors '
B. Transmission Line Structures
C. Substations
IV. CONSTRUCTION
A. Transmission Line and Structures
B. Substations
C. Restoration and Cleanup
D. Operation and Maintenance
E. Property/Right-of-Way Acquisition and Displacement
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' V. AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT,POTENTIAL IMPACTS, AND
MITIGATIVE MEASURES
' A. Environmental Setting
B. Socioeconomic and Cultural Setting
C. Human Settlement
' 1. Noise
2. Aesthetics(including existing trees and right-of-way clearing,pole
heights, substation)
3. Existing Utilities(pipelines,propane tanks, septic systems)
4. Property Values
D. Public Health and Safety
1. Electric and Magnetic Fields
2. Implantable Medical Devices
' 3. Stray Voltage
4. Air Quality Associated with the Transmission Facility
' E. Recreation
1. Parks(city, county,regional, state, and federal)
2. Trails
' F. Transportation and Public Services
1. Roads and Highways
' 2. Emergency Services
3. Airports
G. Interference
' 1. Radio(AM/FM and Short-wave)
2. Television(satellite and digital)
3. Global Positioning Devices
' 4. Cellular Phone
5. Wireless Internet
t H. Archaeological and Historic Resources
I. Land Use(land-based economies)
1. Mining
2. Commercial
3. Tourism
4. Agriculture
' 5. Forestry
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J. Zoning and Land Use Compatibility/State and Local Government t
Planning
1. Residential
2. Shoreland
K. Water Resources
1. Lakes,Creeks, Streams,Rivers, and Other Waterways
2. Wetlands(including description and function)
3. Riparian Areas
4. Floodplain
L. Soil and Groundwater
M. Flora and Fauna
1. Wildlife Management Areas
2. Scientific and Natural Areas
3. State,Federal, and Regional Parks and Forests ,
4. Avian Line Markers/Diverters
5. Vegetation Removal
N. Threatened/Endangered/Rare and Unique Natural Resources
VI. ALTERNATIVE ROUTES TO BE EVALUATED IN THE
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
In addition to the Proposed Routes proposed by Xcel Energy in its route permit
application,the environmental assessment shall address the following alternative route:
Baker Park Preserve Alternative
The application identified two routes that crossed portions of the Baker Park Preserve;
these were ultimately rejected by Xcel Energy in favor of the Proposed Route. During
the scoping process,members of the public requested further evaluation of a route
alternative that minimized impacts to private property by shifting the route burden to
public lands. The Baker Park Preserve Alternative to be evaluated in the EA is the same
as Alternative Route 2 described in Appendix G of the Route Permit Application. The
Baker Park Preserve Alternative(Figure 1, attached) follows the same route as the
Proposed Route for the first 866 feet out of the substation,but continues northward for
approximately 326 feet across the BNSF Railroad, U.S. Highway 12, and an existing
Xcel Energy distribution line. Upon exiting U.S. Highway 12 right-of-way,the route
enters the Three Rivers Park District's Baker Park Reserve. From here the route
continues westerly approximately 974 feet across Baker Park Reserve property
connecting to existing Xcel Energy 115 kV transmission Line 0831. The route would
then cross back over to the south side of U.S. Highway 12.
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Alternatives Proposed but not Evaluated in Detail
This section will also describe the alternative substation sites that were proposed in
scoping but not evaluated in the EA.
VII. IDENTIFICATION OF PERMITS
The environmental assessment will include a list and description of permits from other
government entities that may be required for the proposed project.
' ISSUES OUTSIDE THE SCOPE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
The scope of the Orono Substation Expansion and New 115 kV Transmission Line Project EA
will not consider the following:
A. No-build alternative.
' B. Issues related to project need, size,type, or timing.
C. Any route or substation alternatives not specifically identified in this scoping decision
' document.
D. Policy issues surrounding whether utilities or local-government should be liable
for the cost to relocate utility poles when roadways are widened.
E. The manner in which land owners are paid for transmission rights-of-way
easements, as that is outside the jurisdiction of the Commission.
' ALTERNATIVE ROUTES NOT CHOSEN FOR FURTHER EVALUATION
None of the proposed alternative substation sites were chosen for further evaluation in the EA.
Alternative Substation Sites 1,2, 3, and 4 were proposed by Michael Kuruvilla in order to
' minimize impact on homeowners and the surrounding environment. Xcel proposes to expand an
existing 0.1 acre site to approximately 1.2 acres within its 16 acre parcel. The substation site is
zoned as"RR-1A,"allowing 1 home per 5 acres."
Xcel Energy addressed the proposed substation sites in a letter filed September 7, 2011. A map
accompanying the Xcel Energy filing shows the location of the proposed alternative sites. The
alternative substation sites and the site-specific reasons they were not included can be
summarized as follows:
' Alternative Substation Site 1: This site is comprised of three small parcels owned by MnDOT
between U.S. Highway 12 and Sixth Avenue South and is zoned the same as Xcel Energy's
current substation site. These parcels are not large enough for development of the proposed
substation of 1.6 acres and additional area necessary for setbacks. The actual developable area
' of these parcels is likely to be further reduced based on observed wetlands on the parcels and
possible additional setbacks or buffers from U.S. Highway 12. The estimated length of
transmission line from this site is approximately 0.54 miles,or approximately 0.15 miles more
than Xcel Energy's proposed route.
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Alternative Substation Site 2: This site is comprised of three parcels owned by the Park Gun '
Club. This site is zoned as"Rural Residential, one home to 2 acres." The Park Gun Club is a
nonconforming use in that location and is prevented from making any changes to their current
use, including the layout of their shooting range. It does not appear that there is sufficient space
within the parcel to locate both the gun club with its current layout and the substation,resulting
in a likely displacement of Gun Club. Orono zoning does not permit gun clubs within the city;
the club would not be able to re-locate within Orono. Anecdotal information indicates that gun '
clubs are very difficult to locate within metropolitan areas. The estimated length of transmission
line from this site is approximately 0.76 miles, or approximately 0.4 miles more than Xcel
Energy's proposed route.
Alternative Site 3: This site is owned by the city of Orono. The site is zoned as"RR-1B,"
allowing one home per two acres. This 39 acre property was donated to the city in 2000 for use
as a passive natural environmental park; the donation specified restrictive covenants limiting
improvements to the park to allow only for passive recreational uses. The city's 2030 Land Use
Plan identifies this site as"Park,Recreation, and Open Space." The parcel is bounded to the
north by several residential lots. Routing would require avoidance of the cloverleaf intersection
of US Highway 12 and Wayzata Boulevard. The estimated length of transmission line from this
site is approximately 0.5 miles. '
Alternative Site 4: This site is privately owned and is zoned as"RR-1B,"allowing one home per
two acres. The site is identified on the City's 2030 Land Use Plan as"High Density
Residential." Depending upon the location of a substation on this parcel,use of this site would
require approximately 6,500 feet of new double-circuit 115 kV transmission line,or
approximately 3,400 feet more than the Proposed Route. As with Alternative Site 3,use of this
site would require routing around the cloverleaf intersection of US Highway 12 and Wayzata
Boulevard. The estimated length of transmission line from this site is approximately 1.31 miles,
or approximately 0.9 miles more than Xcel Energy's proposed route.
All of the alternative substation sites would also require acquisition of new land by Xcel Energy
for the substation and easements for additional transmission line to meet the purpose and need of
the Project. Although no routes for the additional transmission to the alternate substation sites
were developed, it appears that the alternate sites would require approximately 800 to 4,900 feet
of additional double circuit 115 kV transmission compared to Xcel Energy's proposed route.
Development of a new substation site would also require re-location of two existing electric
distribution lines in addition to the transmission,resulting in additional impacts to new
landowners.
For the above reasons,the Department concluded that further evaluation of these alternative
routes would not assist in the Commission's final decision on the route permit application.
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SCHEDULE
The environmental assessment shall be completed and available in October,2011. A public
hearing will be held in the Orono area after the environmental assessment has been issued and
notice served.
iSigned this 12°day of Vemrtlac.' , 2011
STATE OF MINNESOTA
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
DIVISION OF . NERGY RESOURCES
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Willi. '.rant, Deputy Commissioner
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Orono 115 kV Transmission Project
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Routes Included in EA Scope
fIlmilim.Proposed Route K, t* t ' '�,
it Alternative Route „i,,yi -y`9� „0k: e :r,',-,
.Existing Xcel Energy 115kV Line 0831 f w � s • }
I
Existing GRE 69kV Line BD RiR• 'Nary 1 .F**A.,*GRE 69kV Line BD To Be Removed .f• o qs' .h. G<a •t r -
-—•Proposed Relocation of GRE 69kV Line BD �..;�tr `f Vo:',
�s. -.M�r y�..
Existing Xcel Energy Distribution Line "'=a -�$ a r' ♦,4
I
Requested Route Width(Approximately 400'Total) 1. .� / r �• � t t
L I Existing Xcel Orono Substation : .£a ir� s4
Orono Substation Property }'� �^ �l, t ,+(f
Park Boundary
Proposed 75 Ft Right-of-Way
.'.:q-T,.4.-_1-it,.',. --7,..--ii.,
- - > - hh tt
f!
i -.,O Proposed Orono Substation Expansion Area "t aP .`D ,
Hennepin County Parcels
4a.Existing Infrastructure to be Removed I
Proposed
115 kV Single Circuit
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1 Appendix D: Route Permit Example
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STATE OF MINNESOTA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION
' ROUTE PERMIT FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A HIGH-VOLTAGE TRANSMISSION
LINE AND ASSOCIATED FACILITIES
' IN HUBBARD COUNTY
' ISSUED TO
GREAT RIVER ENERGY
PUC DOCKET NO. ET2/TL-10-86
' In accordance with the requirements of Minnesota Statutes .pter 216E and Minnesota Rules
Chapter 7850,this route permit is hereby issued to:
' GREAT RIVER ENER
Great River Energy is authorized by this route permit taco " ct a new 7.25-mile 115 kilovolt
(kV)transmission line between a newly proposed Potato 11 e substation to be constructed in
Arago Township and a tap point on Great River Energy's existing Mantrap Sub Tap 34.5 kV
' transmission line in Lake Emma Township, Hubbard County, nesota. The new 115 kV
transmission facility line would initially he operated at 34.5 kV til conversion to 115 kV
becomes necessary.
The transmission line and ssoi9 ities shall be built within the route identified in this
permit,as portrayed on th offic s route maps, and in compliance with the conditions specified
in this permit.
•
Approved and adopted the day of Novem rc r, 2010
BY ORDER OF TICOMMISSION
' Burl W. Haar,
Executive Secretary
This document can be made available in altemative formats(i.e.,large print or audio)by calling 651.296.0406(voice). Persons
with hearing or speech disabilities may call us through Minnesota Relay at 1.800.627.3529 or by dialing 711.
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CONTENTS
1 ROUTE PERMIT 4 I
2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 4
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2.1 115 kV High-Voltage Transmission Line 4
2.2 Substation 5
2.3 Structures & Conductors 5
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3 DESIGNATED ROUTE 7
3.1 Route Width and Alignment 7
3.2 Right-of-Way Placement 8
3.3 Right-of-Way Width 8
4 PERMIT CONDITIONS = 9
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4.1 Plan and Profile9
4.2 Construction Practices 9 1
4.2.1 Field Representative 9
4.2.2 Local Governments 10 I 4.2.3 Cleanup £' 10
''.::::
4.2.4 Noise 10
4.2.5 Vegetation Removal in the Right-of-Way 10I
4.2.6 Aesthetics 10
4.2.7 Er"lowCoutrol 11 1
4.2.8 ��Vetlands and Water R rces 11
4.2:9 haeological and pistoric Resources 12
4.2.10 Temrary Work Space y, 12
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4.2.11 R �toration 12
4.2.12 Notice of Permit 13 I 4.3 Periodic Status Reports 13
4.4 Complaint Procedure 13
4.5 Notification to Landowners 13
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4.6 Completion of Construction 13
4.6.1 Notification to Commission 13
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4.6.2 As-Builts 13
4.6.3 GPS Data 14 I 4.7 Electrical Performance Standards. 14
4.7.1 Grounding 14
4.7.2 Electric Field 14 1
4.7.3 Interference with Communication Devices 14
November 2010 Page 12
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4.8 Other Requirements 15
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4.8.1 Applicable Codes 15
4.8.2 Other Permits 15
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4.8.3 Pre-emption 15
4.8.4 Delay in Construction 15
5 SPECIAL CONDITIONS 16
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5.1 Avian Mitigation Plan for Potato River Crossing 16
5.2 Blanding's Turtle 16
1 6 PERMIT AMENDMENT 17
7 TRANSFER OF PERMIT 17
8 REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION OF THE PERMIT 17
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1 FIGURES
Figure 1 —Overview Proposed Route
Figures 2 A-F—Proposed Route'
ATTACHMENTS
Minnesota Public Utilities Co ! i %mplaint Handling Proce res for High-Voltage
Transmission Lines
Minnesota Public Utilities Comm ion Compliance Filing Procedures for Permitted Energy
IFacilities "T
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INovember 2010 Page 13
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1 ROUTE PERMIT
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission(Commission)hereby issues this route permit to
Great River Energy (Permittee)pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 216E.03 and Minn. R. Chapter 7850.
This permit authorizes the Permittee to construct approximately 7.25 miles of new 115 kV
transmission line and associated facilities in Hubbard County,Minnesota and as identified in the
attached Route Permit Maps, hereby incorporated into this document.
2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Permittee is authorized to construct a project comprising a 7.25-mile transmission line and
Potato Lake Substation as described in the Route Permit App ' ation and evaluated in the
Environmental Assessment. The approved route is shown the Route Permit Maps attached to
this permit and further designated as described.
2.1 115 kV High-Voltage Transmission Line
The 115 kV transmission line route would • '`.1,1 te +s - east of the city of Park Rapids in
Hubbard County, Minnesota. The project woul•,/.peci ally be located in sections of Arago,
Lake Emma,Todd, and Henrietta townships.
Project Location Data
County Township Township Range Sections
Name
Arago 141 N 354,N26, 27 28 34 35 36
Henrietta 140N 34 W 5,6
Hubbard
Lake Emma 141 N W 31 32
Todd 140N 35W 1,2
The Route is 7.25 miles of new overhead 115 kV transmission line between the new Potato Lake '
Substation in section 21 of Arago Township and a tap point on GRE's existing Mantrap Sub Tap
34.5 kV line in both section five of Henrietta Township and section 32 of Lake Emma Township.
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November 2010 Page 14 '
2.2 Substation
The new Potato Lake substation will be a fenced-in area of 96 feet by 146 feet on a 3.2 acre
parcel located in section 21 of Arago Township, along U.S. Highway 71. Itasca-Mantrap has
purchased 3.2 acres of the land and will own all common facilities (land, fence, etc.) (See Figure
1).
2.3 Structures & Conductors
The Permittee will use single-pole, direct-embedded wood structures, or similar. The poles
average 65 to 80 feet in height with spans of 300 to 400 feeta tween poles. Horizontal post
insulators will be used unless design requires longer spans,. yo • the capability of the
insulators, in which case a braced post design will be uti -• ;; .cc. modate the increased
loadings.
Single-pole with underbuild design will be use• - «r wh the new transmission line will
utilize the existing right-of-way of Itasca- wrap stri on lines along U.S. Highway 71 and
230th Street(Northern Pine Road) and i u. -w 12.5 kV distribution lines on the new 115
kV structures that follow along 230th Street(No rn Pine Road) and 141st Avenue up to the
' intersection with County Highway : Why atructures are tacked"with a 115kV above a
12.5 kV the higher total voltage wilg .o es height 85 feet with span length of
250 to 300 feet. ''
The Applicant will develop stra es in an Avian ;tiga 'on P that will be implemented to
avoid or minimize impacts to bir. or their habitats at the �. . o River crossing and other public
waters along the r te,pursuanttb Section 5.1 of this Permit. The Avian Mitigation Plan will be
submitted to t o issi n with the P '. d Profile for the Project.
The three phases th 5kV transmi A.'on lin.. 9 ill each consist of one single 26/7 kcmil 477
steel-reinforced alu um conductor.
' One shield wire will be strung above the conductors to prevent damage from lightning strikes.
These shield wires are typically less than one inch in diameter and include fiber optic cables,
which allow a path for substation protection equipment to communicate with equipment at other
1 terminals on the transmission line.
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1 November 2010 Page l 5
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Transmission Line and Structure Specifications
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Structure Pole Found- Height Span
Line Voltage ConductorFoundation
Type Material ation dia. (feet) (feet)
Single Pole
115 kV ACSR 477 Direct
Horizontal- wood 20 inches 60-85 300-400
Single-Circuit kcmil 26/7 Embed
Post
Single Pole
115 kV
Horizontal-
Single-Circuit
ACSR 477 Post Direct
with 12.5 kV Wood 20 inches 70-85 250-300
kcmil 26/7 with 12.5 kV limbed
Distribution
Distribution
Underbuild
Underbuild
yed
x Direct
Wood, ,'
115 kV ACSR 47 � bedment 48-60
Laminate, 60-85 NA
Single-Circuit kcmil 26/ St tore wrt s inches
Wood or
,� le, ' er
115 kV ACSR 477 Direct
H-Frame Woo, 20 inches 60-85 600-800
Single-Circuit kcmil26/7 Embed
Transmission lines shall be equipped with protective devices(breakers and relays located where
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transmission lines connect to substations)to safeguard the public in the event of an accident.
Associated facilities will be properly fenced and accessible only by authorized personnel.
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November 2010 Page 16
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3 DESIGNATED ROUTE
IThe approved route is shown on the official route maps attached to this permit and further
designated as follows:
IThe transmission line route exits the new Potato Lake Substation in Section 21 of Arago
Township along U.S. Highway 71 and proceeds south paralleling U.S. Highway 71 for
approximately 1.5 miles to 230th Street(Northern Pine Road); east along 230th Street for
I approximately 1.5 miles to 141st Avenue; south approximately 1 mile along 141st Avenue to
County Highway 18; then east paralleling County Highway 18 for approximately 3.25 miles to
County Highway 4 and a new three-way switch on the existing Mantrap Sub Tap 34.5 kV line in
I both section five of Henrietta Township and section 32 of La e Emma Township along County
Highway 4.
I3.1 Route Width and Alignment
The designated route will be limited to 300 feet in , "•th as depicted on the attached Official
Route Maps. This width will provide the Pe •;,F� •,fle j' ility for minor adjustments of the
Ispecific alignment or right-of-way to acco :s date,an.• er requests and unforeseen
conditions. The final alignment(i.e.,pe n t and maintained rights-of-way)will be located
within this designated route unless othe , .ut h ized below.
The designated route,as shown on the alta d aerial photos anticipates an alignment that would
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follow two to five feet outsideexistin�g road rights-of-way (Count ighway 4, County Highway
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18, 141st Street, 230th Str-et and U.S. Highway 71) . eplace distribution structures and follow
Itasca-Mantrap's existing istrion line right-o y •ng . Highway 71, and that
minimizes the overa .• - tial i acts relati • to th ct• dentified in Minn. R. 7850.4100,
I as evaluated in the enviro i 'review and • '-'1 _ :ocesses. Consequently,this permit
anticipates thate actual r ht-of-way e ,�y conform to this alignment unless changes
are requested by individu andowner unforeseen conditions are encountered, or are otherwise
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pe it. Any align nt mo• ications within this designated route shall be
located so as to haveomparable overallr'' , ' relative to the factors in Minn. R. 7850.4100 as
does the alignment identified in this permit, and shall be specifically identified in, and approved
as,part of the Plan and Profile submitted pursuant to Part 4.1 of this permit.
Route width variations outside the designated route may be allowed for the Permittee to
I overcome potential site specific constraints. These constraints may arise from any of the
following:
I 1) Unforeseen circumstances encountered during the detailed engineering and design
process.
I2) Federal or state agency requirements.
3) Existing infrastructure within the transmission line route, including but not limited to
I roadways,railroads, natural gas and liquid pipelines,high voltage electric transmission
lines, or sewer and water lines.
1 November 2010 Page l 7
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4) Planned infrastructure improvements identified by state agencies and LGUs and made
part of the evidentiary record during the contested case proceeding for this permit.
Any alignment modifications arising from these site specific constraints that would result in
right-of-way placement outside the designated route shall be located so as to have comparable
overall impacts relative to the factors in Minn. R. 7850.4100 as does the alignment identified in
this permit and shall also be specifically identified(i.e., highlight or otherwise specified) in and
approved as part of the Plan and Profile submitted pursuant to Part 4.1 of this permit.
3.2 Right-of-Way Placement
Where the transmission line route parallels existing highway and other road rights-of-way,the '
transmission line right-of-way shall occupy and utilize the sting right-of-way to the maximum
extent possible, consistent with the criteria in Minn. R. 7 1.4100, the other requirements of this
permit and, for highways under the jurisdiction of the Min sta Department of Transportation
(Mn/DOT), Mn/DOT rules,policies,and procedures.for accommodating utilities in trunk
highway rights-of-way.
3.3 Right-of-Way Width
The 115 kV transmission line will be built prima with singl- ;sole structures,which will
require a 100-foot right-of-way. Where sp i s ructures are quired for long spans or in
environmentally sensitive areas, up o t o right-of be employed.
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4‘1/4(2.%,
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4 PERMIT CONDITIONS
1 The Permittee shall comply with the following conditions during construction of the transmission
line and associated facilities and the life of this permit.
4.1 Plan and Profile
At least 30 calendar days before right-of-way preparation for construction begins on any segment
or portion of the project,the Permittee shall provide the Commission with a Plan and Profile of
the right-of-way and the specifications and drawings for right-of-way preparation, construction,
transmission structure specifications and locations, and restoration for the transmission line. The
1 documentation shall include maps depicting the plan and profile including the right-of-way,
alignment, and structures in relation to the route and alignme .approved per the permit.
The Permittee may not commence construction until the ;d. ° has -xpired or until the
' Commission has advised the Permittee in writing that it has • p ,"`'fid its review of the
documents and determined that the planned const 'on is co ent with this permit. If the
Permittee intend to make any significant changes in it an d Profile or the specifications and
drawings after submission to the Commission',the Permi shall notify the Commission at least
five days before implementing the changes. No changes shall be made that would be in violation
of any of the terms of this permit.
4.2 Construction Practices
' The Permittee shall follow those specific construction practices an aterial specifications
described in the Great Ri r Energy Application t the; ommis ion for a Route Permit, dated
February 26, 2010, and a •escribed in the envirom�nta s sment and Findings of Fact,
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unless this permit es e •itferent requ .• r 'vh` case this permit shall prevail.
4.2.1 F'iel Rep.Tentative
At least •ay . for to commencing co truction,the Permittee shall advise the
Commissio ;"""'writing of the person or.::persons designated to be the field representative
for the Permittee with the responsibility to oversee compliance with the conditions of this
permit during construction.
The field representative's address,phone number, email,and emergency phone number
' shall be provided to the Commission and shall be made available to affected landowners,
residents,public officials and other interested persons. The Permittee may change the
field representative at any time upon written notice to the Commission.
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November 2010 Page 19
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4.2.2 Local Governments
During construction,the Permitee shall minimize any disruption to public services orI
public utilities. To the extent disruptions to public services occur,these would be
temporary and the Permitee will work to restore service promptly. Where any impacts to
utilities have the potential to occur, Permitee will work with both landowners and local
agencies to determine the most appropriate pole placement.
The Permittee shall cooperate with county and city road authorities to develop
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appropriate signage and traffic management during construction.
4.2.3 Cleanup
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All waste and scrap that is the product of construc ' sh, 1 be removed from the area and
properly disposed of upon completion of each tas ' t.onal itter, including bottles, I cans, and paper from construction activities shall be + o + on a daily basis.
4.2.4 Noise
Construction and routine maintenan,, .. ies w be limited to daytime working hours,
as defined in Minn. R. 7030.020 a "'q e nighttime noise level standards will not be
exceeded.
4.2.5 Vegetation Removal in the Right-of-Way
The Permittee shall minimize die number of trees to be remo ed in selecting the right-of- ,
way specifically preserving to the maximu,i xtent prao cable windbreaks, shelterbelts,
living snow fences and areas such as,trail cr. *ngsiltd the Lake Country Scenic By-
Way,where vcgctative screening may .i < thetic impacts,to the extent that suchI
actions do not violate sound engineering inciples or system reliability criteria.
As part of construction, low growing b or tree species are allowable within and at the I
outer limits of the easement area ree species that endanger the safe and reliable
operation of the transmission facility need to be removed. To the extent practical, low
growing vegetation that will not pose a threat to the transmission facility or impede
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construction should remain in the easement area.
4.2.6 Aesthetics I
The Permittee will consider input pertaining to visual impacts from landowners or land
management agencies prior to final location of structures,rights-of-way, and other areas
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with the potential for visual disturbance. Care will be used to preserve the natural
landscape and prevent any unnecessary destruction of the natural surroundings in the
vicinity of the project during construction and maintenance.
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November 2010 Page I 10 I
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New structures will be designed to support the existing transmission and distribution
' lines,thereby allowing the use of existing alignments and will share existing road rights-
of-way to the extent that such actions do not violate sound engineering principles or
system reliability criteria.
1 Structures will be placed at the maximum feasible distance, consistent with sound
engineering principles and system reliability criteria, from intersecting roads,highway,or
trail crossings and could cross roads to minimize or avoid impacts. The Permittee shall
work with landowners to identify and address issues related to the transmission line such
as distance from existing structures,tree clearing, and other aesthetic concerns.
1 4.2.7 Erosion Control
The Permittee shall follow standard erosion control measures outlined in Minnesota
Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) guidance and best management practices regarding
sediment control practice during constructi include protecting storm drain inlets,use of
silt fences,protecting exposed soil, imm-,'a stabilizing restored soil, controlling
' temporary soil stockpiles, and contro g ice tracking.
The Permittee shall implement re ''` abLwneasures to minimize runoff during
' construction and shall promptly pl s , erect silt ces, and/or use erosion control
blankets in non-agricultural ea .. h e disturb wh a structures are installed.
' When utilizing seed to establish temporary a 1 permanent etative cover on exposed
soil,the Permitte ill c. ` It with the Miwe Dep.- ment of Transportation
(Mn/DOT)and M .nesot: I epartment of Natura a rces (MnDNR)to select site
characterisfeleed" rt�ce• to be free of noxiousve-ds.
Conto- w� ..e gred as req ' ed so that all surfaces drain naturally,blend with the
' natural :min, aeare left in a ondition that will facilitate re-vegetation,provide for
proper drat and prevent erosion. All areas disturbed during construction of the
facilities will .e returned to their pre-construction condition.
' Larger disturbed areas of one acre or more (substation site)will be regulated by a
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System(NPDES)permit and Stormwater
' Pollution Prevention Plan prepared for the project.
4.2.8 Wetlands and Water Resources
' Structures shall be located to span watercourses,wetlands, and floodplains to the extent
practicable and consistent with sound engineering principles. Minimal grading of areas
around pole locations may be required to accommodate construction vehicles and
' equipment.
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November 2010 Page j 11
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Minimal grading of areas around pole locations may be required to accommodate
construction vehicles and equipment. The Permittee will use wooden mats or a I composite mat system for construction during frozen conditions to minimize disturbance
and compaction of wetlands and riparian areas during construction. Soil excavated from
the wetlands and riparian areas will be contained and not placed back into the wetland or
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riparian area. Silt fencing or other erosion control measures will be used to prevent
sedimentation when working near wetlands and watercourses. Areas disturbed by
construction activities will be restored to pre-construction conditions (soil horizons, I contours,vegetation, etc.) (See also Section 4.2.7 [Erosion Control]).
4.2.9 Archaeological and Historic Resources
The Permittee shall make every effort to avoid imp to identified archaeological and
historic resources when installing the high-volts ransssion line on the approved
route. In the event that a resource is encountered, S-IPO should be contacted and I
consulted;the nature of the resource shoul s:*e idents i `and a determination should be
made on the eligibility for listing in the < i• �yReg' er of Historic Places. Where
feasible, avoidance of the resource is -•• .1. I
4.2.10 Temporary Work Space
The Permittee shall limit tetnporarya a is to special construction access needs and
additional staging or lay-down areas required outsideof the authorized right-of-way.
Space should be selected to Iimit the removal and impacts t`rvegetation.
Temporary Y
la do n areas outside of the a horized transmission line right-of-way will I
be obtained f• ected landowners oug nal agreements and are not provided for
in this pe 't Pty I
Temp• +rive . 's may be i nstruc b een the roadway and the structures to
minimize an•a •y using the s srtest r• to possible. Construction mats may also be
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used to mini =xze impacts on acc- ••as s and construction areas.
4.2.11 Restoration
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The Permittee shall restore the right-of-way,temporary work spaces,access roads,
abandoned right-of-way, and other public or private lands affected by construction of the
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transmission line. Practices to restore areas impacted by construction and maintenance
activities are further described in Section 4.2.7 of this permit. Restoration within the
right-of-way must be compatible with the safe operation,maintenance, and inspection of
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the transmission line.
Within 60 days after completion of all restoration activities,the Permittee shall advise the
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Commission in writing of the completion of such activities. The Permittee shall
compensate landowners for any yard/landscape, crop, soil compaction,drain tile, or other
damages that may occur during construction.
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4.2.12 Notice of Permit
IThe Permittee shall inform all employees, contractors, and other persons involved in the
transmission line construction of the terms and conditions of this permit.
I4.3 Periodic Status Reports
The Permittee shall report to the Commission on progress regarding finalization of the route,
I design of structures, and construction of the transmission line. The Permittee need not report
more frequently than weekly.
I At the request of the Commission,the Permittee shall report to the Commission on progress
regarding finalization of the route and design of structures. Permittee shall report to the
Commission on construction of the Project in a manner o ed ' the Environmental
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Management Plan under Section 5.1 Special Conditions
4.4 Complaint Procedures
111 Prior to the start of construction,the Permittee shall submit to the Commission,the procedures
that will be used to receive and respond to complaints. The procedures shall be in accordance
with the requirements set forth in the complaint procedures attached to this permit.
' 4.5 Notification to Landowners
The Permittee shall provide a w ected ndc niers with a copy of this permit and the
Icomplaints procedures at the t e i st contact 'th the landowners after issuance of this
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permit. At the time of fir '3 cont , the 'ermittee s ll o pr 'de all affected landowners with
a copy of the Landower wide t, asements •ublic •' n ded by OES.
The Permittee all contac ,andowners • - ring the property or conducting maintenance
along the rou T Pe s iee shall avoid con uc an and maintenance practices,particularly
I the use of fertili he ides or other esticid that are inconsistent with the landowner's or
tenant's use of the . a. � h
I The Permittee shall work with landowners to locate the high-voltage transmission lines to
minimize the loss of agricultural land, forest, and wetlands, and to avoid homes and farmsteads.
1 4.6 Completion of Construction
4.6.1 Notification to Commission
IAt least three days before the line is to be placed into service,the Permittee shall notify
the Commission of the date on which the line will be placed into service and the date on
Iwhich construction was complete.
4.6.2 As-Builts
I Within 60 days after completion of construction,the Permittee shall submit copies of all
the final as-built plans and specifications developed during the project.
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4.6.3 GPS Data
Within 60 days after completion of construction,the Permittee shall submit to the E
Commission, in the format requested by the Commission, geo-spatial information
(ArcGIS compatible map files, GPS coordinates, associated database of characteristics,
etc.)for all structures associated with the transmission lines, each switch, and each
substation connected.
4.7 Electrical Performance Standards. '
4.7.1 Grounding
The Permittee shall design, construct, and operate the transmission line in a manner that
the maximum induced steady-state short-circuit current shall be limited to five
milliamperes(mA), root mean square (rsm) alternating current between the ground and
any non-stationary object within the right-of-way, including but not limited to large
motor vehicles and agricultural equipment. All fixed metallic objects on or off the right-
of-way, except electric fences that parallel or cross the right-of-way, shall be grounded to
the extent necessary to limit the induced short-circuit current between ground and the
object so as not to exceed one mrms under steady state conditions of the transmission
line and to comply with the ground fault conditions spec ied in the National Electric
Safety Code (NESC).Permittee shall address and r ctify y induced current problems
that arise during transmission line operation.
4.7.2 Electric Field
The transmission line shall be designed. constructed, and operated in such a manner that
the electri ield measured one meter above ground level immediately below the I
transmi on line shell not exceed_- .0 kVim rms.
4.7.3 1,erferete with Co umcattbn Devices I
If interferenc with radio or televiz , atellite, wireless interne, GPS-based agriculture
navigation systems or other communication devices is caused by the presence or
operation of the transmission line,the Permittee shall take whatever action is prudently
feasible to restore or provide reception equivalent to reception levels in the immediate
area just prior to the construction of the line.
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4.8 Other Requirements.
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4.8.1 Applicable Codes
I The Permittee shall comply with applicable requirements of the NESC including
clearances to ground, clearance to crossing utilities, clearance to buildings,right-of-way
widths, erecting power poles,and stringing of transmission line conductors. The
I transmission line facility shall also meet the North American Electric Reliability
Corporation's (NERC)reliability standards.
I 4.8.2 Other Permits
The Permittee shall comply with all applicable state rules and statutes. The Permittee
shall obtain all required local, state and federal permits for the project and comply with
I the conditions of these permits. A list of the required permits s included in the route
permit application and the environmental assessment. The Permittee shall submit a copy
of such permits to the Commission upon request.
I4.8.3 Pre-emption
Pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 216E.10. subd. 1 and 2,this ro..J e permit shall be the sole route
Iapproval required to be obtained by the Permittee and th <,permit shall supersede and
preempt all zoning, building, or land use rules, reg A ±
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5 SPECIAL CONDITIONS
The Permittee shall provide a report to the Commission as part of the Plan and Profile
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submission that describes the actions taken and mitigative measures developed regarding the
Project and the following Special Conditions.
5.1 Avian Mitigation Plan for Potato River Crossing
The Permittee will prepare an Avian Mitigation Plan to identify potential issues that may pose a
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risk to avian species or their habitats at the Potato River crossing and other public waters along
the route. The Permittee will develop strategies in an Avian Mitigation Plan that will be
implemented to avoid or minimize impacts to birds or their habitats at this crossings. Among I
other elements,the Plan shall require the Permittee to use lar swan type bird diverters. The
Permittee shall coordinate the number and spacing of the e . erte with the MnDNR. The
Permittee is to consult with the MnDNR and U.S. Fish a ,W' ife ervice (USFWS) in I developing the Plan. The Plan shall include strategies to en .- c truc.tion activities are
scheduled to avoid disturbing normal eagle breedi ,feeding,: : eltering behavior, as
necessary. The Permittee shall ensure the projecconfo s h the requirements of the Bald I and Golden Eagle Protection Act in consultation with th` FWS. The Avian Mitigation Plan
will be submitted to the Commission for proval with the Plan and Profile for the Project.
The Permittee's standard transmission design shal1Aincorporate equate spacing of conductor(s) I
and grounding devices in accordance with Avian Power L' action Committee (APLIC)
standards to eliminate the risk of electrocution to raptors with lar wingspans that may
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simultaneously come in contact with a conductor andieunding devices.
5.2 Blanding's T
The Permittee shalfollow easures and recommendation for avoiding and minimizing impacts I
to Blanding's turtle popula<ens as outlined in the ' nesota Department of Natural Resources
Division of Ecological Resources Enviionmental Review Fact Sheet Series for Blanding's Turtle
(http://files.dnr.stateann.us/natural_res ces/animals/reptiles_amphibi.ans/turtles/blandings_turtl
e/factsheet.pdf) . Construction and maintenance personnel shall be made aware of the
Blanding's turtle and their habitat during pre-construction meetings.
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6 PERMIT AMENDMENT
The permit conditions in Sections 4 and 5 may be amended at any time by the Commission. Any
person may request an amendment of the conditions of this permit by submitting a request to the
Commission in writing describing the amendment sought and the reasons for the amendment.
The Commission will mail notice of receipt of the request to the Permittee. The Commission
may amend the conditions after affording the Permittee and interested persons such process as is
required.
7 TRANSFER OF PERMIT
1 The Permittee may request at any time that the Commission transfer this permit to another
person or entity. The Permittee shall provide the name and description of the person or entity to
whom the permit is requested to be transferred,the reasons for the transfer, a description of the
' facilities affected, and the proposed effective date of the transfer.
The person to whom the permit is to be transferr-d l provide"the Commission with such
1 information as the Commission shall require etermi ` ; ether the new Permittee can comply
with the conditions of the permit. The Commission may Mthorize transfer of the permit after
affording the Permittee,the new Permittee, and interested persons such process as is required.
1 8 REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION OF THE PERMIT......., �.
' The Commission may initiate action to revoke or suspend this permit at any time. The
Commission shall act in . cordance with the requi em'' is of Minn. R. 7850.5100 to revoke or
suspend the permit.
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MINNESOTA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION
COMPLAINT HANDLING PROCEDURES FOR
HIGH-VOLTAGE TRANSMISSION LINES
A. Purpose 1
To establish a uniform and timely method of reporting complaints received by the Permittees
concerning Permit conditions for site preparation, construction, cleanup and restoration,
operation and resolution of such complaints.
B. Scope I
This document describes complaint reporting procedureN quency.
C. Applicability
The procedures shall be used for all complaints rec,: ved tty the Permittees and all complaints
received by the Commission under Minnespta Rule 7829.1500 or 7829.1700 relevant to this
Permit. vt4
D. Definitions
Complaint: A verbal or riff „►t''presented , the Permittees by a person expressing 1
dissatisfaction or concern i gar. _ site preparatio -.cleanup orestoration or other route and
associated facilities .� i' •ndit*Ons. Comp is do not include requests, inquiries, questions
1 or general comments.
Substantial Comp i„ t •-written co` plaint d eging a violation of a specific Route Permit
condition that, if subs.,4 ` iated, could r It in P it modification or suspension pursuant to the
applicable regulatio
Unresolved Complaint: A complaint which, despite the good faith efforts of the Permittees and 1
a person(s), remains to both or one of the parties unresolved or unsatisfactorily resolved.
Person: An individual,partnership,joint venture,private or public corporation, association, 1
firm,public service company, cooperative,political subdivision,municipal corporation,
government agency,public utility district, or any other entity,public or private,however
organized. '
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E. Complaint Documentation and Processing
IThe Permittees shall document all complaints by maintaining a record of all applicable
information concerning the complaint, including the following:
I • Name of complainant, address,phone number, and e-mail address.
■ Precise property description or parcel number.
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Name of Permittees representative receiving Complaint and date of receipt.
■ Nature of Complaint and the applicable Site Permit conditions(s).
■ Activities undertaken to resolve the Complaint.
II . Final disposition of the Complaint.
The Permittees shall designate an individual to summarize bm aints for the Commission. This
Iperson's name,phone number and email address shall act‘:fwkt1y a complaint submittals.
A Person presenting the Complaint should to the ettot possib: include the following
information in their communications:
• Name, address,phone number, and e-mail address.
• Date
• Tract or parcel
• Whether the complaint relates to (1)aroute permi or(2) a compliance issue.
F. Reporting RequirementsA
The Permittees shall report all complaints to the Commissi' ccording to the following
Ischedule:
Immediate R• Al bstantialmplaints shall be reported to the Commission the same
Iday received, or • 4.h •Mowing wor g day complaints received after working hours.
Such reports are to . directed to High-V `Y ransmission Line Permit Compliance, 1-800-
657-3794,or by e-mail to: DOC.energypermitcomplianceastate.mn.us, or voice messages are
Iacceptable.
Monthly Reports: By the 15th of each month, a summary of all complaints, including
1 substantial complaints received or resolved during the preceding month, shall be Filed to Dr.
Burl W. Haar, Executive Secretary, Public Utilities Commission, using the Minnesota
Department of Commerce eDocket system(see eFiling instructions attached to this permit).
IIf no Complaints were received during the preceding month,the Permittees shall submit(eFile) a
summary indicating that no complaints were received.
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G. Complaints Received by the Commission or Office of Energy Security
Complaints received directly by the Commission from aggrieved persons regarding site
preparation, construction, cleanup, restoration, operation and maintenance shall be promptly sent
to the Permittees.
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H. Commission Process for Unresolved Complaints
Initial Screening: Commission staff shall perform an initial evaluation of unresolved Complaints I
submitted to the Commission. Complaints raising substantial High-Voltage Transmission Line
Permit issues shall be processed and resolved by the Commission. Staff shall notify Permittees I and appropriate person(s) if it determines that the Complaint ' a Substantial Complaint. With
respect to such Complaints, each party shall submit a write summary of its position to the
Commission no later than ten days after receipt of the Sta a€if icat'#n. Staff shall present I Briefing Papers to the Commission,which shall resolve the • nt within twenty days of
submission of the Briefing Papers.
Permittees Contacts for Complaints I
Complaints shall be sent to: , I
Michelle Lommel
Great River Energy
12300 Elm Creek Boulev..da
Maple Grove,MN 55369"4NN
Telephone: (763 A 5-59 •, I
, ,,,,,i;'''''''`' ,,,Nt
Email: mlom _rene- .com
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MINNESOTA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION
I COMPLIANCE FILING PROCEDURE
FOR PERMITTED ENERGY FACILITIES
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1. Purpose
To establish a uniform and timely method of submitting information required by the Commission
Ienergy facility permits.
2. Scope and Applicability
IThis procedure encompasses all compliance filings required permit.
I3. Definitions
Compliance Filing—A sending(filing) of informatrato the Commission, where the information
Iis required by a Commission site or route permit.
4. Responsibilities
The Permittees shall eFile all compliance filingswith Dr. Burl Par,Executive Secretary, Public
Utilities Commission,through the Department of Comme : ) eDocket system. The
system is located on the DOC website: https://www.edockets.state: - .us/EFiling/homejsb
I General instructions are %vided on the website. Permittees must register on the website to
P � g
eFile documents _ ���
All filings muzi,4 ave a coy,.sheet that ='lodes: Illk
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• Date
• Name of sub itter/Permittee
• Type of permit(Site or Route)
I • Project location
• Project docket number
• Permit section under which the filing is made
I ■ Short description of the filing
Filings that are graphic intensive (e.g.,maps,plan and profile)must, in addition to being eFiled,
I be submitted as paper copies and on CD. Copies and CDs should be sent to: 1) Dr. Burl W.
Haar,Executive Secretary,Minnesota Public Utilities Commission, 121 7thPlace East, Suite 350,
St. Paul,MN, 55101-2147, and 2)Department of Commerce,Energy Facility Permitting, 85 7th
IPlace East, Suite 500, St. Paul,MN, 55101-2198.
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PERMIT COMPLIANCE FILINGS1
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PERMITTEES: Great River Energy
PERMIT TYPE: 115 kV High-Voltage Transmission Line Route Permit
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PROJECT LOCATION: Hubbard County,Minnesota
PUC DOCKET NUMBER: ET2/TL-10-86
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Filing Permit
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Number Section Description Due Date
1. 4.2.1 Contact information for field 0 days prior to
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representative construction
2. 4.3 Periodic Status Re s Not more than weekly I
m,�
3. 4.4 Complaint Pro d e Prior to start of construction i
At, First contact with the
4. 4.5 Notification to Landowners andowners after issuance
of permit I
30 days before right-of-way
5. 4.1 : Plan and Profile of„Rig1 o=Wa
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preparation or construction
6 �� I Notice of co t e + a date of Three days prior to
placement i 6.service energizing
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4 6 Provide As-b : d GPS information Within 60 days of
7. (ArcGIS files or similar) construction I
8. 5.1 Avian Mitigation Plan Submit with Plan and
Profile
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1 This compilation of permit compliance filings is provided for the convenience of the Permittee and the I
Commission. However,it is not a substitute for the permit;the language of the permit controls.
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