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SunZia Southwest Transmission Project Receives Final Federal Approval

Summary

The SunZia Southwest Transmission Project, the largest clean energy transmission project in the United States, has received its final federal approval after more than 15 years of planning. The project aims to transmit up to 4,500 megawatts of primarily renewable energy from New Mexico into Arizona and California. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) issued its record of decision, a precursor to the final right-of-way grant required for construction on federal lands. The transmission line will span approximately 520 miles, crossing federal, state, and private lands. Pattern Energy Group LLC, the owner of the project, intends to deliver clean energy that is affordable and helps meet air quality standards in the lower Southwest. The project includes the installation of over 900 wind turbines in New Mexico. Despite facing challenges from concerned environmental groups, the company has made efforts to mitigate environmental impacts and involve stakeholders in the process. Construction is expected to be completed by the first half of 2026.

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