Pigs Eye Lake Transmission

Project Overview

The existing 115 kV transmission network near Pigs Eye Lake Regional Park was built in the 1960s and has reached the end of its expected operational life. Xcel Energy plans to rebuild the infrastructure to meet continued electric reliability in the region. The project will modernize and enhance the performance of the transmission lines, ultimately improving reliability and minimizing the risk of outages.

The project will entail separating the existing two circuit transmission lines onto their own structures to ensure redundancy and reliability for customers in the area. Additionally, in recent years, national electric codes have been updated, and infrastructure that was built in previous decades may not meet current requirements. New and rebuilt lines will be upgraded to meet these new code requirements.

Learn what’s next for the Pigs Eye Lake Rebuild Project

Current Status: Xcel Energy completed pre-construction activities in December 2025, including installing matting and access roads, and secured all necessary permits by year-end. Construction began as planned in January 2026, taking advantage of frozen ground conditions near Pigs Eye Lake to minimize environmental impacts. Phase 1 construction is now nearing completion, with crews expected to wrap up work and be offsite by the end of May 2026.

What’s Next: Construction will pause over the summer, with crews returning at the end of August 2026 to begin Phase 2. If all progresses as planned, the full project—including habitat restoration—is anticipated to be complete by spring 2027.