Subject:
In 2003, Georgia Transmission Corporation (GTC) partnered with the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) to develop the EPRI/GTC Electric Overhead Transmission Line Siting Methodology. Our goals were to develop a methodology that was objective, quantitative, consistent, and defensible; while also creating an approach that incorporated stakeholder input and was flexible enough to produce several alternatives instead of just a computer generated "best" route. The Methodology developed uses geographic information system (GIS) model building techniques and algorithms to narrow down preferable areas with connectivity between the project’s start and end locations. It considers impacts to the natural environment, human environment, cultural resources, as well as, engineering constraints. The Methodology also incorporates expert judgment to determine constructible alternative routes, evaluate risk, and determine the most preferable solution for the project. Although GTC uses this Methodology to site new electric transmission corridors, it can be modified to site many other types of linear infrastructure.
The Methodology has served GTC well. GTC has implemented the Methodology on numerous projects totaling approximately 500 miles of electric transmission with voltages ranging from 46 kV to 500 kV. The Methodology has aided in demonstrating to the courts, regulators, and legislators that our process is thorough and the route selections are not arbitrary. We believe the Methodology has minimized the amount of transmission line siting legislation that has been passed in the State of Georgia over the past 18 years.
This presentation will give an overview of the Methodology through a step by step process. GTC developed these illustrations for public meeting overviews and for expert witness testimony during project litigations.
About Speaker:
Christopher D. Smith graduated from the University of North Alabama in 1999 with a BS in Professional Geography. He served as the technical lead during the development of the EPRI/GTC Siting Methodology. He currently leads the group that monitors the use of the Methodology at GTC, oversees enhancements, and continues to promote the Methodology in various forums.
Currently, Mr. Smith is the manager of the Environmental Services department for GTC. He manages a staff of 8 that leads location suitability studies for new electric transmission facilities and environmental permitting for transmission construction projects. His department manages ecological and cultural surveys and environmental permitting for new construction projects and facility modifications. This group also is responsible for NEPA documentation and other environmental compliance issues that are addressed on capital construction projects. Mr. Smith communicates routing and siting decisions in public forums and legal hearings. In addition, he monitors new technology, data sources, industry trends, and regulatory changes that may affect work flow, task durations, and project success.