Phoenix, Ariz.— At the Arizona Corporation Commission’s Regular Open Meeting on September 5, 2024, the Commission voted 5-0 to approve a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility (CEC) for Tucson Electric Power Company’s (TEP) Midtown Reliability Project.

The Project is needed to upgrade Midtown Tucson’s older and overloaded 46 kV transmission system to a more flexible and higher-voltage transmission system. The Project involves construction of a new 138 kV transmission line approximately 8.5 miles in length mounted on steel monopole structures. The Project will loop the existing TEP DeMoss Petrie 138 kV Substation to the existing TEP Kino 138 kV Substation with a connection at the planned Vine 138 kV Substation.

“I understand why some Tucson residents would want this project constructed below ground,” commented Commissioner Myers, “however, constructing the project below ground is not needed for safety, reliability or other utility operational reasons; therefore, is not acceptable for all TEP customers to shoulder the $67 million cost for undergrounding the project.”

“I am pleased the Commission approved this important grid-reliability project, while at the same time protecting TEP customers from unnecessary undergrounding expenses,” stated Commissioner Myers.  

The Commission’s vote was consistent with the rejection of Proposition 412 last year by Tucson voters, which included a new customer fee to pay for undergrounding power lines. 

For more information, please contact Amanda Hasty at myers-web@azcc.gov.