state - ERCOT
On April 24, 2025 the PUCT approved building the Permian Basin import paths at 765 kV - the first extra-high-voltage transmission in ERCOT. Approved import paths include New Substation 2 (Dinosaur)-Longshore-Drill Hole, Bell East-Big Hill-Sand Lake, and Howard-Solstice. The underlying Permian Basin Reliability Plan was approved in October 2024; the EHV option was estimated at roughly 22% above the 345 kV alternative with greater long-term import capability.
Permian Basin / West Texas (ERCOT West zone)
The Howard-to-Solstice 765 kV import path terminates at the AEP Solstice substation area near Fort Stockton; energization expected around 2030 per public reporting. Materially improves long-run grid-deliverable MW for Delaware Basin data center sites.