About the Project
This 765 kV single-circuit transmission line project includes an expansion of Oncor Electric’s existing Longshore Switch, located approximately 4.5 miles west of the City of Forsan in Howard County, and the expansion of Oncor’s existing Drill Hole Switch, located west of US 285 near Culberson and Reeves counties. The transmission line project is expected to span across 160 miles.
The transmission line will be supported by self-supporting steel lattice towers, typically ranging from 140 to 170 feet in height, with a maximum height of approximately 198 feet, which is comparable to 15- to 18-story buildings. Easements will generally range from 200 to 300 feet in width.
Project components include:
- A new 765 kV single-circuit transmission line
- Fiber-optic communication facilities installed approximately every 40-50 miles
Expected Impacts
Hundreds of private landowners are expected to experience impacts. 765 kV transmission lines require wider easements than standard 345kV circuits, cutting through more private land. This project will involve the acquisition of permanent easements, granting Oncor perpetual rights to the easement areas. This can result in:
- Reduced property value: large, unsightly transmission lines can impact the value of the remainder property
- Loss of land control: limits to how your property can be used and permission for Oncor to enter your property at any time
Project Background
This project stems from a plan developed by Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) to improve electric reliability in the Permian Basin, which was approved by the Texas Public Utility Commission in October 2024. In April 2025, the Commission approved building a high-capacity transmission line for this route.
Estimated Timeline
- PUC Application Filed: December 11, 2025
- Deadline to Intervene: January 12, 2026
- Deadline to File Testimony or Statement of Position: April 2026
- PUC Design Decision: Summer 2026
- Right-of-Way Acquisition Start: Summer 2026
- Construction Start: Late 2026
- Construction Completion: 2029
Additional Resources
Protect Your Rights on This Project
To speak to an experienced eminent domain and condemnation attorney about the Longshore to Drill Hole Transmission Line project, call Barron, Adler, Clough & Oddo, PLLC at (512) 478-4995 or fill out the contact form on the right side of this page.