What Texas Landowners Need to Know
As Texas continues to experience rapid growth, the demand for reliable electricity is more critical than ever. The Big Hill to Sand Lake transmission line project is a significant initiative designed to address this need, particularly in the Permian Basin region. This project, jointly proposed by LCRA Transmission Services Corporation (LCRA TSC) and Oncor, aims to enhance the state’s electric grid and support ongoing economic development. However, as a Texas landowner, you may have concerns about how this project could affect your property. Here’s what you need to know.
Project Overview
The Big Hill to Sand Lake transmission line is a major new 765-kilovolt (kV) project. It will span about 177 miles, connecting the new 765-kV Big Hill Substation in Schleicher County to Oncor’s existing Sand Lake Switch in Ward County. This route will pass through several counties, including Crane, Crockett, Ector, Irion, Pecos, Reagan, Reeves, Schleicher, Tom Green, Upton, Ward, and Winkler. The project is divided between LCRA TSC, which will handle the eastern half, and Oncor, which will manage the western half.
Purpose and Need
The primary goal of this project is to meet the current and future electricity needs of the Permian Basin, an area experiencing unprecedented industrial growth, particularly in the oil and gas sectors. The project is part of the Permian Basin Reliability Plan, mandated by the Texas Legislature and approved by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) in October 2024. By reducing interconnection times for new loads and providing critical infrastructure, the new transmission line will support both traditional energy industries and new economic growth.
Project Timeline
The project is already underway, with several key milestones scheduled:
- January-May 2025: Identification of preliminary alternative route segments.
- April 2025: PUC orders LCRA TSC and Oncor to build the 765-kV line.
- June 2025: Public open houses for feedback in Big Lake, McCamey, and Pecos.
- Late Fall/Winter 2025: Filing of joint application with PUC to amend Certificates of Convenience and Necessity (CCNs).
- Winter/Early Spring 2026: PUC review and processing of application.
- Summer 2026: PUC decision and final route determination expected.
- Summer 2030: Estimated project in-service date.
Technical and Regulatory Aspects
The project requires amendments to the utilities’ CCNs, with public and stakeholder input being sought to identify routing constraints and assess potential impacts. The Big Hill to Sand Lake line is part of a broader set of upgrades in the region, including other 765-kV and 345-kV projects to support reliability and capacity. It is specifically referenced as “765_Import_2E” in ERCOT and PUC filings, highlighting its role in the state’s long-term transmission import strategy.
Community Engagement
LCRA TSC and Oncor have engaged with the community. Public open houses were held in June 2025 to inform and gather feedback from local officials and residents in the affected counties. Ongoing opportunities for public comment are available through project questionnaires and meetings. As a landowner, your input is valuable in shaping the project’s development and making sure your concerns are addressed.
Significance
The Big Hill to Sand Lake transmission line project represents a significant investment in Texas’ electric grid. It is expected to improve reliability, reduce bottlenecks, and facilitate faster interconnections for new customers in the Permian Basin. By supporting both traditional energy industries and new economic growth, this project will play an important role in the region’s future.
For more detailed information, project materials, and updates, stakeholders are encouraged to visit the LCRA and Oncor project pages or participate in ongoing public engagement opportunities. By staying informed and involved, Texas landowners can make sure their voices are heard and their interests are protected throughout the development of this critical infrastructure project.
Brad Bayliff is an experienced, respected, and tested advocate for clients before the Texas PUC. His clients admire the passion he has for his work and their cases. The lawyer you choose makes a difference.™
