Section 31
Reliability Projects.
As part of our commitment to provide safe, reliable service to all of our customers, Central Maine Power (CMP) is updating our delivery system in your service area. While we are investing in upgrades to meet the community’s higher energy demands and customer count, we are working closely with our neighbors to ensure that all improvements are performed safely and with minimal disruption to your daily lives, the community, and the environment.
Please note: CMP is seeking Section 31 project approval from the Maine Public Utilities Commission as required under 2019 legislation that also requires a review for non-wires alternatives. See “Maine Public Utilities Commission Notice of Proceeding” below.
AVANGRID Networks, the parent company of Central Maine Power, recently completed a survey of its transmission system to identify which sections were in need of attention to improve the reliability and safety of its electrical grid. Section 31, a 34.5kV transmission line between the Topsham 115kV and Brunswick Westside substations, was identified due to its age as well as a higher customer count that now feeds off this line.
The project runs through commercial sections of Topsham and residential neighborhoods of Brunswick. It crosses Interstate 295 three times, Route 1, two railroad crossings, and the Androscoggin River.
The approximately 5-mile long project will be a complete rebuild. New structures will be placed on 15-foot offsets of the current line to allow the current line to remain energized. The project includes replacing 107 existing poles and cross arms with new, taller wood poles to meet NERC requirements. When the new line is finished, the old line will be removed.
Maine Public Utilities Commission Notice of Proceeding
Central Maine Power has filed with the Maine Public Utilities Commission a request for approval of the 5-mile long, 34.5 kV project as the result of a new requirement passed recently by the Legislature that went into effect on September 19, 2019. The new legislation requires CMP to seek Commission approval of any transmission project capable of operating at less than 69 kV if the project is projected to cost in excess of $5 million. CMP estimates that this project will cost $9.3 million. Other requirements applicable to this project are discussed in the Commission’s Notice of Proceeding here .
View the notification letter to landowners and abutters here .
Please note: A link in the letter to Chapter 110 of the Commission’s rules of practice and procedure was incorrect. It can be found here. (https://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/rules/65/407/407c110.doc)
Construction Timeline and Anticipated Schedule (No construction schedule is set at this time)
Easement
CMP has a permanent easement for a 100-foot wide right of way/corridor
Fact Sheet
To view the Section 31 Rebuild Project Fact Sheet, click here .
Frequently Asked Questions
To view answers to frequently asked questions, click here .
Construction Notice to Landowners in Easement
To view the Construction Notice, click here.
For more information or questions
Please contact the Electrical Infrastructure Projects Information Line at 1-888-267-0831 and include the name of the project – Section 31 – with your detailed message. A representative from the project team will return your call within three (3) business days.