Plans for Big Hill to Sand Lake and Bell County East to Big Hill 765 kV Transmission Line Routes Put on Hold

September 21, 2026
BarronAdler

On Friday, September 11, 2026, the Texas Public Utility Commission (PUC) placed the Big Hill Substation to Sand Lake Switch and Bell County East Switch to Big Hill Substation 765 kV projects on remand, sending both back to the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH).

What happened: The SOAH judges did not address two questions the PUC wanted answered and the  PUC says these answers are essential before the case can move forward, so the PUC is sending both cases back to SOAH.

It tracks with the judges’ findings: SOAH’s Sept. 9 Proposal for Decision had already recommended against granting the certificates, citing:

  • No evidence proving that the lines are necessary
  • Failure to meet notice requirements meant to give landowners a chance to participate before the case was filed
  • The unanswered-questions issue the PUC later flagged

Why it matters and what this means for property owners: Neither project has an approved Certificate of Convenience and Necessity (CCN). For property owners, there’s no confirmed route yet. This is a pause on the projects, but not a red light. 

What’s happens next:

  • Oncor Electric and the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) return to SOAH with answers and supporting evidence — possibly reopening the record or triggering additional hearings
  • SOAH issues a revised Proposal for Decision
  • The case goes back to the PUC for a final vote 

It’s Not Too Late To Seek Legal Counsel

While these projects are still in the PUC process, it’s not too late to talk to an attorney. If you believe your property may be impacted by any of these transmission line projects, contact Barron, Adler, Clough & Oddo, PLLC to consult with an experienced eminent domain and condemnation attorney.

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