Anclote – Tarpon Springs Transmission Line Project

As Florida’s population grows, so do its energy needs. Our forecasts predict that Florida’s energy needs will grow by approximately 10 percent over the next decade. The transmission system in Florida is an open access system, meaning the transmission system serves all utilities in the state and their customers. The new transmission line and substation expansion will help strengthen reliability to meet growing demand and will enhance the ability of Duke Energy and other utilities to provide safe and reliable energy to homes, community facilities and businesses in Pinellas and Pasco counties and the region.

Engineers and planners use growth and usage projections, as well as continuous monitoring of the electric system, to identify the need for expansion of the system that serves our customers in Florida. Since it can take several years to plan, develop, engineer, and construct a project, projects are proposed in advance to ensure the new facilities are in place and ready to meet customers’ needs. 

Construction crews generally work weekdays during daylight hours and carry identification showing their affiliation with Duke Energy. The crews use a variety of vehicles and equipment to place and erect poles and to string wires. We anticipate temporary traffic lane/trail closings along the route. Potential helicopter work may also be required. Following construction, the area will be restored as closely as possible to its original condition.

Yes. Our vegetation crew will be removing trees and vegetation from the easement during the summer of 2023. In addition, any encroachments, such as structures, signs and other items, will be identified for removal or relocation to make room for construction and for the safe and reliable operation of the new transmission line. We will work with property owners in advance of these activities on their properties.

Current construction plans call for the transmission line to be suspended on steel or concrete monopole (single pole) structures. The average height of the new steel or concrete transmission poles is 90 feet and 120 feet.  Distance between each will range from 600 to 1,000 feet on average.