AEP Texas is set to construct one of the three 765-kV transmission lines in the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) region of the US to cater to the increasing electricity demands of the Permian Basin – a critical energy hub for both the state and national economies.
The Howard-Solstice transmission line project is set for construction following the approval by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) on 24 April 2025.
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The project is an integral component of the Permian Basin Reliability Plan, aimed at establishing new pathways for enhanced power delivery to the region.
AEP will carry out construction as part of a jointly assigned project entailing the development of 300 miles of high voltage transmission line, linking AEP Texas’ Solstice Substation in the vicinity of Fort Stockton to a substation near San Antonio.
The commission-sanctioned extra-high voltage transmission lines are designed to enhance efficiency and reliability in the delivery system across West Texas.
The project is part of the state’s efforts to support the expansion and electrification of the oil and gas industry, as well as to meet the increasing electricity needs of local communities.
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By GlobalDataIt is a response to Texas House Bill 5066, signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott in 2023, which mandated the PUCT to instruct ERCOT to develop an electric reliability plan for the Permian Basin.
AEP Texas president and chief operating officer Judith Talavera said: “The State of Texas is experiencing significant levels of population and economic growth, and the Public Utility Commission’s action today will help ensure that the electric grid is better prepared to meet the growing demand on the electric system.
“AEP Texas is proud to play a role in this transformative step for our state, building one of the first 765-kV transmission lines in ERCOT, and to continue to provide safe and reliable service for our customers.”
American Electric Power, the parent company of AEP Texas, owns more than 2,110 miles of 765-kV transmission lines – the largest such network in North America.
This 765-kV network encompasses more than 2,200 miles (3540.5km) and 30 substations across six US states.
In January 2025, AEP entered a strategic partnership with KKR and PSP Investments to sell a 19.9% equity interest in its Ohio and Indiana and Michigan transcos. The deal is worth $2.82bn.
