The North Plains Connector would consist of an estimated 422-mile-long transmission line, carrying high-voltage direct current (HVDC) between Colstrip, Mont., and two endpoints in North Dakota. The line is designed to carry up to 3,000 megawatts of electricity in both directions, connecting the Western Electricity Coordinating Council, Midcontinent Independent System Operator and Southwest Power Pool grid regions.
According to DOE officials, the connector would help stabilize electricity supply during extreme weather events, as well as reduce the risk of widespread outages and allow power to move through regions as demand fluctuates.
The release of the Final Environmental Impact Statement signifies the end of the federal and state environmental review process, which began in 2024. Officials incorporated public comments and feedback from a 45-day comment period earlier this year into the final report.
Per project documents, the transmission line carries an estimated cost of about $6 billion. The DOE has also committed $700 million toward the project, with funds coming from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
A new entity, North Plains Connector LLC will develop the project. Several utility companies have already committed to capacity on the transmission line, including NorthWestern Energy, Montana-Dakota Utilities and Minnkota Power Cooperative.
Officials anticipate a federal Record of Decision around October, after which developers can pursue remaining permits. These include a certificate from MDEQ and a right-of-way grant from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
According to the developers, the project will support a peak workforce of about 800 construction jobs, while generating tens of millions of dollars in local property tax revenue over its lifespan.
Developers plan to begin major construction in 2028, with the work lasting three to four years. The line is projected to become operational in 2032.
Photo by Hartono Subagio from Pexels
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