The New York Public Service Commission on Thursday approved a 90-mile transmission line that aims to increase power flows, including from offshore wind, between Long Island and the rest of the state. The $3.26 billion project is being developed by New York Transco and the New York Power Authority. The New York ISO selected the Propel NY Energy transmission project in 2023 as part of its public policy transmission planning process, aiming to bolster downstate reliability.
The project includes new underground transmission lines at both 138 kV and 345 kV levels, connecting to nine existing or new substations and running through Suffolk, Nassau, Queens, Bronx and Westchester counties. The PSC's order adopted a joint proposal that included NYPA, New York Transco, staff of the New York State Department of Public Service, other state agencies, the City of New York and the Long Island Commercial Fishing Association. PSC Chair Rory Christian said the review demonstrated that the project meets statutory siting standards and will help provide needed power downstate.
Opponents argued the project was no longer necessary due to the cancellation of several offshore wind projects. Regulators, however, pointed out that the state's renewable energy goals remain unchanged despite project headwinds, and New York has more than 1,800 MW of offshore wind either operating or under construction. The PSC said the statutory target that the statewide electric demand system be zero-emission by 2040 similarly remains in place.
What remains unknown is whether local opposition will delay or alter the project. Sea Cliff Village Administrator Bruce Kennedy said the village is thoroughly reviewing the decision and weighing all available options for next steps. The PSC is continuing to review Propel NY's Environmental Management and Construction plans, with public comment open until Oct. 1. Developers say some construction could begin later this year at discrete areas along the route, with more comprehensive construction anticipated to begin in mid-2027 pending all approvals and permits, and an aim to complete the project in 2030.