Two utility companies to build, own transmission line in North Dakota

(Bismarck, ND) -- Two utility companies are set to build an electrical transmission line in southeast North Dakota.

The 345-kilovolt transmission line would be co-owned by Otter Tail Power and Bismarck-based Montana-Dakota Utilities.

“This project, along with the other phase one LRTP projects, will help ensure a reliable, resilient, and cost-effective transmission system, benefiting not only our region and customers but also surrounding regions and customers—all while ensuring we continue to provide affordable electricity,” said Otter Tail Power President Tim Rogelstad. “We’ve worked with Montana-Dakota in the past, coordinating the successful completion of the Big Stone South to Ellendale 345-kV transmission project, and we look forward to collaborating with them on yet another significant project.”

The line will cover 95 miles from Otter Tail's Jamestown substation to MDU's Ellendale substation.

“This project will bolster connections between existing 345-kV systems in the state and relieve excessive loading on the 230-kV system, which will help increase the movement of electric energy out of North Dakota and South Dakota, reduce congestion, improve fuel savings, and maintain the reliability of the transmission system in the future,” said Montana-Dakota President and CEO Nicole Kivisto. “We look forward to working with Otter Tail Power on another important piece of infrastructure for the region.”

The project is estimated to cost 439-million dollars, and the companies are currently targeting an in-service date of late 2028.