Search for your questions using the categories to the right. Don’t see it? No problem. Ask it using the “Have a Question?” button to the right. An Oncor representative will e-mail you, letting you know that Oncor experts are working on finding your answer. It’s just one more way Oncor is working to become a trusted adviser to the people we serve.

1. Why does Oncor have to build more transmission lines?

   Transmission lines are the high voltage conductors that move electricity from power plants to distribution systems, which deliver power to customers. Adequate transmission capability is essential for electric reliability and to serve growing population and foster economic growth. Transmission lines are typically built to connect new power plants, (including renewable energy generators), to accommodate power flow from generation or load changes and to reduce congestion on the electric grid, which can impact energy costs. Transmission lines help ensure the continued safe, reliable and efficient delivery of electricity to homes and businesses.

   -Wes S., Oncor Transmission Expert

2. Why can’t Oncor bury all the power lines?

   Burying a major transmission line operated and capable of carrying a few thousand megawatts, presents numerous challenges. First, the cost — underground transmission is significantly more expensive than the cost the price of an above-ground transmission line; second, maintenance and repair — underground lines take longer to repair and maintenance is more complicated. As a result, above-ground major transmission lines need to remain in service to ensure continued reliable, cost effective, electric power to electric customers in Texas.

   Oncor does bury a substantial amount of the new Distribution lines we install. However, there are several factors that must be considered on both new and existing electrical equipment or facilities. For example, in some cases it is not physically possible to install underground facilities due to obstructions or space considerations for the associated equipment. Also, due to the cost involved in materials and installation, it is not always economically feasible to install underground facilities. An additional consideration is that it is typically easier to locate and correct problems on an overhead installation, thus making it easier and often faster to accomplish required maintenance activities or restore service to overhead lines.

   It should be noted that Oncor’s tariffs support an allowable expenditure for new construction based on serving the location with overhead facilities. Many times, when underground facilities are installed, the requesting party is required to pay for all or a portion of the cost associated with the installation of those underground facilities. In situations where a customer requests that Oncor bury existing facilities, the customer is typically required to pay the full cost of the removal of the existing overhead facilities, as well as the installation of the new underground facilities.

   -Wes S., Oncor Transmission Expert, and David R., Oncor Distribution Expert

3. Where can I find information about the new transmission line routes being considered or constructed?

   Oncor understands the importance of this project to landowners and the community. As such information about Oncor transmission line projects, including those that are part of the Competitive Renewable Energy Zones (CREZ) project, can be found online at www.oncor.com/transmissionprojects.

   -Autry W., Oncor CREZ Expert

4. Where can I find information about Oncor’s plans for a new transmission line that will go through Woodbine, Texas?

   Oncor understands the importance of this project to landowners and the community. As such, for any questions, please call our Krum West – Anna project number at 214.486.7343. If you leave a message at that number, an Oncor representative will call you back to help you with your requests. Additionally, information about Oncor transmission line projects, including those that are part of the Competitive Renewable Energy Zones (CREZ) project, can be found online at www.oncor.com/transmissionprojects.

   -Autry W., Oncor CREZ Expert