LANSING, Mich. (WOWO) — Plans for more than 250 miles of high-voltage power lines across northern and mid-Michigan are drawing opposition from landowners who fear losing control of their property, while utility officials argue the project is needed to improve the state’s unreliable electric grid.
The proposed Copperton Projects would connect substations in Midland County with facilities in Ludington, Gratiot County and the Tittabawassee area of Midland County. The projects are part of a multistate transmission expansion coordinated by the Midcontinent Independent System Operator, which manages the electric grid across 15 states and Manitoba.
The lines are expected to cost more than $1 billion and could begin operating in 2032. ITC, the country’s largest electric transmission company, would oversee construction…