The Bowers-Howard 115 kilovolt (kV) transmission line was energized on March 2, 2016. The new transmission line will enhance electric reliability to the existing and growing loads in the Howard Substation area and in Wheeler County.
The estimated 38-mile transmission line runs between the existing Bowers Substation, three miles west of Lefors and a mile north of FM 2375 in Gray County, and the existing Howard Substation, near the intersection of FM 2473 and South Osage Street in Wheeler. A Certificate of Convenience and Necessity was filed with the PUCT on August 1, 2012. The PUCT approved a Final Order in June 2013.
The 115 kV line is constructed of single pole steel structures that are 70 to 140 feet tall with a 70-foot right-of-way and an average span between structures of 650 feet. Additionally, a new breaker terminal added at the Bowers Substation and a second autotransformer at the Howard Substation will support increased load growth and reliability in the area.