New California-Arizona Ten West Link Transmission Line Breaks Ground

In July 2022, Vice President Kamala Harris, Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm and National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi broke ground for the Ten West Link, a 500 kV high-voltage transmission line that will connect Southern California and central Arizona to deliver clean electricity.

“The Ten West Link in Arizona demonstrates a very important point: when we invest in climate, we invest in families, in communities, in opportunity and prosperity for all people,” says Harris. “When we invest in climate, we build a safer, cleaner, healthier, more just, and more prosperous country. When we invest in climate, we invest in America.”

The transmission infrastructure project will support the development of utility-scale solar energy resources in a region with high potential for solar power. The project will boost the reliability of the bulk power system for millions of customers in central Arizona and Southern California by providing 3,200 MW of transmission capacity for solar projects. It is expected to be operational by the end of 2023.

“The Ten West Link will accelerate our nation’s transition to a clean energy economy by unlocking renewable resources, creating jobs, lowering costs, and boosting local economies,” comments Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland. “Through robust engagement with states, cities and Tribes, the Biden-Harris administration is committed to diversifying the nation’s renewable energy portfolio while at the same time combating climate change and investing in communities.”

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