The Reynolds-Topeka Electric System Improvement Project is a 6 year project that will strengthen Indiana’s electric system and provide improved access to wind and solar renewable energy sources through the construction of a new 100 mile electrical transmission line that will connect NIPSCO’s Reynolds substation (in Reynolds, IN), Burr Oak substation (in Burr Oak, IN) and Hiple Substation (near Topeka, IN).
The construction of NIPSCO’s Reynolds-Topeka Line—a 100 mile electric transmission line from Reynolds to Burr Oak to Topeka, IN—will create jobs, enhance system reliability, offer environmental benefits and improve access to lower cost electricity for customers. This project is one of 17 other similar projects – lead by the Midwest Independent System Operator (MISO) occurring across the Midwest.
NIPSCO is connected to the nationwide electric grid, and through this project, system reliability will be enhanced and congestion lessened. "If power cannot be moved on lines, it builds up and is wasted," shared NIPSCO External Communications Specialist Kathleen Szot. "Looking at future population trends, the benefit of this project is widespread. We are looking to avoid future problems. There needs to be other routes to get power to customers."
The project is currently in the Study Area Phase—there is no selected route yet. We are in the process of conducting studies and soliciting input from the public in order to determine the best possible route.
Reynolds-Topeka Project Facts
- New 100-mile electric transmission line connects NIPSCO's Reynolds substation (in Reynolds, IN), Burr Oak substation (in Burr Oak, IN) and Hiple substation (near Topeka, IN)
- $270 million to construct the project
- Undetermined route expected to avoid cities and towns
- 200 ft. wide path (right-of-way or "ROW") will be needed for the project
- Typical steel structure height of 130 ft. with an average 880 ft. between structures
Project Benefits
The Reynolds-Topeka Line is a large, multi-year project that will provide a direct benefit to customers, the local economy and the environment by:
- Creating new jobs and business for local suppliers
- Increasing property taxes paid to local governments by NIPSCO
- Improving the overall reliability of our electric system
- Providing anticipated cost savings to customers from access to lower cost electricity
- Improving access to wind and solar renewable energy sources that reduce greenhouse gases
Public Outreach
NIPSCO held a public open house in February, and will hold another one in July 2013 to solicit input on the project route, answer questions, and to address any concerns.
Click here to stay updated on the Reynolds-Topeka Project.