Why Are We Doing This Project?

As part of our ongoing commitment to deliver reliable energy and superior service to our customers, we are proposing replacement of an existing 115-kilovolt (kV) transmission line in the Dover, Needham and Westwood area.

The cable was installed in 1967 and nearing the end of its design life expectancy. The existing high pressure fluid filled (HPFF) transmission line will be replaced with solid dielectric cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) cables.

The proposed transmission system improvements proactively increase system reliability by:

• Proactively addressing any issues obtaining supplies needed for system repairs and upgrades
• Upgrading to a system technology with longer life expectancy
• Reducing occurrence of unplanned outages that may require the need for emergency replacement or repair
• Eliminating the risk of oil leaks from existing HPFF cables
• Potentially increasing line capacity for future load growth
  

The proposed project is part of our larger Underground Cable Modernization Program that we are conducting throughout our service territory in Connecticut and Massachusetts. 

Where Is This Work Being Done?

The proposed project includes replacement of HPFF to XLPE electric transmission cables along a 1.3-mile existing route in the Dover, Needham and Westwood area. The route is between the Chestnut Street substation in Needham and Westfield Street substation in Westwood, along the Westwood-Dover town boundary.

Most of the work will be concentrated on Chestnut Street in Needham and Westfield Street in Dover. Minor equipment upgrades could be required at the Dover and Needham substations to accommodate the replacement lines.

Replacement work will not interrupt normal electric service to local customers.

*Click map to enlarge

About this project

• Route length: Approximately 1.3 miles
• Line voltage: 115 kilovolts (kV)
• Siting review by: Department of Public Utilities (DPU)

For more information, download the project fact sheet and read our frequently asked questions. (PDFs)

Siting Review

The project requires a petition to be filed with the DPU. We intend to submit a petition in the first quarter of 2025.

Community Outreach

We're committed to engaging city officials, residents, businesses, community groups and other stakeholders about project activities through meaningful engagement.

Our team strives to incorporate local feedback as feasible. Project team members will remain engaged with the community throughout the project to provide schedule updates and address questions and concerns. 

Project information is available in Spanish and other languages upon request.