We're supporting load growth, strengthening reliability, and building new customer facilities in Lackawanna County

• PPL Electric Utilities is planning to build a new 500/230 kV substation — the Archbald Mountain Substation — as well as a new 230 kV switchyard – the Winton Switchyard — and approximately eight miles of new 230 kV transmission lines in Lackawanna County.
• This project will support new customer connections to the transmission grid and improve reliability across the region. By upgrading equipment and adding additional pathways for power delivery, we will reduce outage risks and ensure dependable service for all customers.
• We’re conducting thorough studies and analyses to determine route options for the transmission lines and potential location for the substation and switchyard.
• We’re committed to keeping landowners and communities informed throughout each step of the project.
• In addition to the Archbald Mountain Project, PPL Electric Utilities is also planning to build 2 new 230 kV switchyards – Callender Gap and Sturges – and about four miles of new transmission lines in Lackawanna County. For more information on this additional project, please refer to the Callender Gap and Sturges Transmission Project Fact Sheet and FAQ.

Please read frequently asked questions about the project below. If you don’t see your question here, please review our FAQs document.

Still have a question? Reach out to us via email: ArchbaldMountainProject@pplweb.com.

Why is this project needed?

The new substation, switchyard, and transmission lines will support new customer connections and strengthen reliability across the region. By upgrading equipment and adding new power pathways, we are reducing outage risks and ensuring dependable service for all customers.

It’s important to note that the transmission grid is a system of pathways that move electricity from where it is generated to where there is demand for power. In that respect, the Archbald Mountain project, along with other transmission lines, plays a supporting role in the flow of power to the regions where demand for electricity is growing.

What townships or boroughs will this project run through?

The new transmission lines will be constructed in Archbald, Jessup and Olyphant Boroughs as well as Jefferson Township in Lackawanna County. The proposed substation will be constructed in Archbald Borough in Lackawanna County.

Will this project require additional right-of-way?

This project will utilize a combination of new and existing right-of-way. The new 230 kV transmission lines between the proposed Archbald Mountain Substation and a new customer facility will require a new 250-foot-wide right-of-way corridor.

The new 230 kV transmission lines between the proposed Callender Gap Switchyard and Archbald Mountain Substation will utilize an existing 350-foot-wide right-of-way. PPL Electric will begin working with landowners in the area to purchase the necessary easements across each of the affected properties after the public open house on March 31, 2026.

What does the construction process include?

We’re committed to minimizing disruption as much as possible in any future construction. Construction includes installation of environmental controls and access roads, clearing of trees in any new right-of-way and installation of new steel transmission structures and substation and switchyard infrastructure. Construction will also involve creating temporary work pads and pull pads, which will be used to install the new conductors. All disturbed areas will be restored upon completion of the project.

When will this project be built?

We anticipate the entire construction process for the transmission lines, substation and switchyard will be completed by summer 2030, with a tentative start date of summer 2027.

Will this project affect my property value?

We understand this is an important concern. Based on available data, projects like this have not shown long-term effects on property values.

How is the value of an easement determined?

We determine the value of an easement by obtaining a fair market value analysis from a certified third-party appraiser, and then we negotiate with the property owner to reach a mutually agreeable payment.

Will the project have any effect on health?

PPL Electric safely operates thousands of miles of transmission lines across its service territory, including densely populated areas. All lines are constructed in accordance with applicable safety standards.

Could this line be built underground?

The vast majority of PPL Electric’s transmission system is above ground. We consider a host of factors in siting transmission lines, including costs and potential impacts to the community and the environment, which are paid for by customers. Building a transmission line underground can be several times more expensive than overhead construction. There are several reasons for this:

• It takes multiple underground lines to equal the capacity of a single overhead line.
• Underground lines require more earth disturbance for trenching.
• If damaged, underground lines can take substantially longer to repair, a delay that could seriously affect reliable electric service.
• If the underground line is placed within a roadway, there are often other underground utilities that must be avoided.

Underground lines are not invisible — they require a surface right-of-way stripped of all vegetation and trees and manholes for access. Because of these issues, underground transmission construction typically only makes sense in areas where there is no viable above-ground route.

Will this project have any impact on the environment?

PPL Electric has an excellent record of building projects in a way that is extremely sensitive to environmental issues. Our track record shows that we work cooperatively with regulatory agencies, obtain all required permits and meet all environmental requirements and regulations under the terms of our permits. Once built, the transmission line involves minimal activity, and its environmental impact is minimal.