PPL Electric Utilities to Construct 37-Mile High Voltage Line from Sunbury to Frackville

PPL Electric Utilities plans to build a 37-mile, 230 kV high-voltage power line between its Sunbury Substation in Shamokin Dam and Frackville Substation. The project aims to support large load customers, particularly due to the development of data centers in Schuylkill County.

NorthPoint Development has acquired land in Schuylkill Highridge Business Park for a data center, while another New York company is considering a facility in New Castle Twp. The new line will replace a transmission line from the 1950s and require an expansion of the current right-of-way from 100 feet to 325 feet.

Construction is expected to begin in 2027 and last approximately one year. PPL will also build a new switchyard in Butler Township and two additional transmission lines. The project aims to enhance grid reliability and accommodate future demand.