MISO Selects AEP-Berkshire JV to Build $1.2B, 765 kV Transmission Project
- Jan 8
- 2 min read
Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) awards major competitive selection to deliver a high-capacity 765 kV transmission link in the Upper Midwest, advancing critical grid backbone investment.
On January 8, 2026, MISO announced that it selected a joint venture between American Electric Power’s Transource Energy and Berkshire Hathaway Energy’s BHE Transmission to build a $1.2 billion, 765 kV transmission line in Wisconsin. The nearly 190-mile project must be operational by June 1, 2034, and was chosen after a competitive solicitation process evaluating cost containment, design, and implementation plans. This award is part of MISO’s $22 billion Long-Range Transmission Plan Tranche 2.1 portfolio, which aims to build a central and northern 765 kV backbone to strengthen grid reliability and expand regional capacity.
Competitive Selection: MISO selected the AEP-Berkshire JV based on demonstrated technical capability and cost containment commitments, despite not having the lowest bid.
$1.2 B Investment: The awarded project represents a significant capital deployment by Midcontinent Grid Solutions to develop high-capacity transmission infrastructure.
Large-Scale Backbone Build: This line contributes to the broader 765 kV transmission backbone envisioned in MISO’s Long-Range Transmission Plan Tranche 2.1.
Regulatory Approvals Pending: Final project progress remains contingent on securing necessary permitting and regulatory approvals.
Complementary Projects: MISO also selected other regional projects (e.g., 345 kV lines) under competitive solicitations, reinforcing a multi-project investment strategy.
“Transource demonstrated the most 765 kV capabilities of all developers and it will partner with a strong contractor to operate and maintain the project after it is complete.” — MISO transmission planning report.
CONCLUSION
While this is a 765 kV extra-high voltage AC project rather than HVDC, its competitive selection and multi-billion-dollar capital commitment reflect the same market and finance dynamics that will shape future U.S. HVDC deployment. The prioritization of backbone transmission under competitive solicitation frameworks and strong cost containment criteria directly informs how large transmission projects, for both AC and HVDC, can attract investor confidence and utility partnership.
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