Malta to Otero Transmission Line Rebuild

Project Overview

Xcel Energy is building a better, cleaner energy future by taking steps to create a smarter and stronger energy grid, for a more secure energy supply. This commitment includes replacing infrastructure reaching the end of its useful life.

We plan to replace the 50-year-old transmission line that runs from the Malta substation southward to the Otero tap, roughly adjacent to US-24 between Lake County Road 52 and Chaffee County Road 371.

The transmission line delivers critical energy between Colorado’s central mountain communities and the San Luis Valley. It was originally built with wood H-frames. Due to natural weathering and the overall age of the poles and equipment, the line is reaching the end of its useful life and must be replaced. The transmission line will be rebuilt to current industry standards that include additional measures to reduce wildfire risk. New infrastructure will improve electric service reliability to homes and businesses in the region and help meet the growing energy needs for years to come.

Project details

• 20 miles of 115 kV line to be rebuilt to modern standards
• Replace aged, wood H-frames with steel monopoles
• Rebuild within existing right-of-way
• Monopoles placed to maintain required clearances
• New conductor will increase performance, capacity, clearance and serviceability
• In some cases, Xcel Energy may need to secure additional permanent easements to meet engineering and operational requirements, or temporary easements for construction and property access

The majority of the 20-mile line crosses land owned by the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service and state conservation easements within Chaffee and Lake counties. A small portion crosses private property. All work will be done in compliance with strict conservation requirements established by these public agencies.

Schedule

The rebuild project will take approximately two years to complete and is dependent on weather. Xcel Energy may begin construction work in Lake County in 2024, if survey work is completed. Planned construction work in 2025 will occur on the segment located primarily in Lake County, between the Twin Lakes Substation and the Malta Substation. Work in Chaffee County, between the Otero Tap (pumping station) and the Twin Lakes Substation, will begin in 2026. 

Please contact the project hotline 303-571-7321 or email MaltaOteroRebuild@xcelenergy.com if you have any questions.

Resources

Malta-Otero Information Sheet (PDF)Transmission Line Construction (PDF)
Birds and Power Lines (PDF)
EMF (PDF)
Safety around power lines (PDF)
Wildfire Mitigation Program (external link)