Section 38 Re-Rate

View Section 38 Re-Rate fact sheet for additional information.

Project Need

In the Winslow-Lakewood area, four solar developers are seeking access. A thorough system impact study determined that transmission line improvements to “re-rate” the conductor would optimize the use of the existing transmission line without having to rebuild it entirely. This is in addition to any distribution line upgrades near their planned solar arrays.

Project Scope

CMP plans to re-rate its Section 38 34.5kV transmission line, which travels slightly more than one mile from Oakland 34.5kV Substation to CMP’s Section 13/38 tap, beginning late Summer 2023 with work estimated to be completed by the end of the year. Nine existing structures will be replaced with taller light-duty steel poles that are needed to safely achieve the increased conductor rating.

CMP’s Section 38 is a radial line that serves the electricity delivery needs of 5,329 customers in the Oakland area. Because it is the only source of electricity, no outages are planned. The new structures will be placed offset from the existing line to allow for the construction to be completed while the line remains energized.

CMP’s Section 38 right of way begins at the Oakland 34.5kV Substation on Cascade Mill Road, crosses Messalonskee Stream, follows behind properties on Mayland Street, then crosses Old Waterville Road, Kennedy Memorial Drive, S. Alpine and Old Alpine streets, and ends in the 250 street-number area of Country Club Road.

Access

Our crews will be entering our right of way (ROW) from main roads. We only will be working in our right of way, and no additional access is required for the replacement of these structures.

Permits

CMP will seek all required state and municipal permits.

Trees and Vegetation

CMP will be trimming trees within our right-of-way and not solely in the areas where we are installing new poles to protect our lines and reduce the possibility of storm-related damages or outages.

Work Hours and Noise

CMP follows municipal work and noise ordinances. Construction noise will be present. You may hear heavy equipment (bucket trucks, cranes, and excavators) during matting and pole setting or removing activities.

Estimated Timetable (subject to change)

  • Construction Start: Late Summer 2023
  • Completion: End of 2023

Maine’s Renewable Energy Goals

CMP is committed to helping the State of Maine reach its renewable energy goals by working to connect new generation to our energy delivery system. Maine’s goal is to reach 80% renewable energy generation by 2030 and 100% renewable energy generation by 2050.

Contact Information

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