Docket No. 217
Connecticut Light & Power Company
Development and Management Plan
Plumtree Substation
Staff Report – May 19, 2004

On April 21, 2004, Connecticut Light Power Company (CL&P) submitted a Development and Management (D&M) Plan for the construction of 345-kV switchgear within an existing Plumtree Substation in the Town of Bethel, Connecticut.

CL&P proposes to construct 345-kV switchgear, gas-insulated components, a 345-kV shunt reactor, and open-air 345-kV bus within an existing substation. Work associated with installation of the cables will be addressed in another section of the D&M plan. The equipment would not be taller than existing substation equipment and situated in the north section of the substation. No site expansion is proposed nor is clearing or grading.

Primary access to the substation is along an 800-foot gravel covered road off Walnut Hill Road. Limekiln Brook borders the substation on the west, north, and east sides and is located approximately 90 feet north. All proposed work is within the existing fenced compound and CL&P proposes to install erosion and sediment controls to protect adjacent environmentally-sensitive areas. If necessary, CL&P may place crushed stone on the existing road for stabilization during construction and to avoid tracking soil off-site. Furthermore, an environmental inspector, the BCS Group, previously recognized by the Council in approving the D&M Plan for the Norwalk Substation, will be responsible for inspections and weekly reporting to verify that the construction is performed in accordance with environmental requirements.

CL&P proposes to start construction during the summer of 2004.

Council staff recommends a two week notice prior to construction and weekly environmental inspections.