The Midcontinent ISO on Jan. 6 announced the selected developers for two transmission projects that MISO said will strengthen reliability and support the region’s long-term energy needs.
Viridon Midcontinent LLC has been chosen to develop the Wisconsin Southeast Competitive Transmission Project (WISE), and Transource, Inc. will lead the Bell Center–Columbia–Sugar Creek–IL/WI State Line 765 kV Competitive Transmission Project (BECI).
These are the second and third of seven competitive projects identified out of the Long Range Transmission Planning (LRTP) Tranche 2.1 portfolio approved by MISO’s board of directors in December 2024.
These selections "follow MISO’s rigorous competitive process that evaluates proposals based on cost and design, project implementation, operations and maintenance, and transmission planning participation – all relevant factors in ensuring project success," the grid operator said.
Together, WISE and BECI represent more than 300 miles of new high-voltage transmission lines and multiple new substations, enabling the reliable delivery of low-cost energy across the Midwest.
“Viridon stood out for WISE with its strong cost containment measures, lowest projected revenue requirement, and executed agreements ensuring timely project delivery,” said Jeremiah Doner, MISO’s Director of Cost Allocation and Competitive Transmission. “For BECI, Transource demonstrated unmatched 765 kV capabilities, a robust design that reduces right-of-way impacts, and a clear plan for construction and operations.”
Both developers will execute Selected Developer Agreements with MISO within 60 days. Construction activities will begin following regulatory approvals and permitting processes.
LRTP is a component of MISO’s Response to the Reliability Imperative -- the shared responsibility of MISO and its stakeholders to address the urgent and complex challenges to the electric grid, it said.
