The Howard-Solstice 765-kV Transmission Line Project
By Attorney and Counselor, Carly Barton
Texas is once again at the forefront of major energy infrastructure development. AEP Texas and CPS Energy are preparing to construct the Howard-Solstice Transmission Line Project, one of the first 765-kilovolt (kV) transmission lines in the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) region. This massive project is a critical step toward meeting the growing electricity demands of the Permian Basin, driven by booming oil and gas operations and data center growth.
If you are a landowner along the proposed route or want to learn more about this project, this article will provide key details, explain the significance of the 765-kV transmission lines, and outline what you need to know to protect your property rights.
What is the Howard-Solstice Transmission Line Project?
The Howard-Solstice Transmission Line Project is a high-voltage 765-kV line connecting AEP Texas’s Solstice Substation near Fort Stockton to a substation near San Antonio. The line will stretch approximately 300 miles across Texas, creating new pathways to deliver power to the rapidly growing Permian Basin. This project was approved by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) on April 24, 2025, and is a part of a larger plan to modernize Texas’s electric grid.
Why is This Project Important?
The Permian Basin has experienced extraordinary energy demand growth. Oil and gas production continues to electrify and expand, and new data centers require significant electricity to operate. The existing transmission infrastructure is not sufficient to meet these demands reliably.
The Howard-Solstice 765-kV line will, along with 2 other proposed 765-kV lines will:
- Support the region’s expanding energy needs
- Enhance grid reliability across a vast area
- Allow for future growth in energy production and consumption
- Reduce the risk of outages that could disrupt critical industries
This transmission line is a significant investment in the state’s energy future and represents a major modernization of the ERCOT grid.
Who is Behind the Project?
The project is jointly assigned, with AEP Texas and CPS Energy are responsible for constructing the Howard-Solstice line. It complements other 765-kV projects in Texas, including:
- LCRA/Oncor’s Bell County East to Big Hill and Big Hill to Sand Lake project
- Oncor’s Longshore Switch Drill Hole and Dinosaur-Longshore project
Together, these projects are shaping a new, robust transmission network across Texas.
For more on the Howard-Solstice project, visit: AEP Transmission – Howard-Solstice
What Landowners Along the Route Should Know
Transmission line projects of this size require the acquisition of land or easements from private property owners. After a route is selected by the PUCT, eminent domain proceedings may affect many landowners along the 300-mile route.
If your property is impacted, you have important rights, including:
- The right to fair market value compensation for any property taken or easements granted
- The right to be informed fully about the project and acquisition process
- The right to negotiate and challenge offers
- The right to legal representation throughout eminent domain proceedings
At Braun & Gresham, we have extensive experience representing Texas landowners facing eminent domain actions related to transmission line projects. We fight to protect your rights and ensure you receive full and fair compensation.
Stay Informed and Take Action Early
Transmission projects like Howard-Solstice are vital but often disruptive to landowners. The best way to protect your interests is to stay informed and act promptly. Follow project updates on the AEP and PUCT websites, review all correspondence carefully, and reach out to Braun & Gresham early for a consultation.
Additional 765-kV Transmission Projects in Texas
In addition to Howard-Solstice, other 765-kV projects are underway or planned in Texas:
- Bell County East to Big Hill — LCRA/Oncor
- Big Hill to Sand Lake — LCRA/Oncor
- Longshore Switch Drill Hole — Oncor
- Dinosaur to Longshore — Oncor
These projects collectively will help build a stronger and more reliable grid for Texas.
Learn more about other projects at:
Contact Braun & Gresham for Expert Eminent Domain Help
If your land is impacted by the Howard-Solstice Transmission Line Project or any other transmission line project in Texas, it is critical to have experienced legal guidance. Braun & Gresham is committed to protecting Texas landowners.
Visit braungresham.com or call us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you protect your rights and secure fair compensation.
Protect your land. Know your rights. Trust Braun & Gresham.