Aerospace Research Campus Transmission Project

Tucson Electric Power (TEP) has identified a potential route for a new transmission line that will serve Pima County’s Aerospace Research Campus, supporting economic development and job creation in our community.

The Aerospace Research Campus Transmission Project will link TEP’s existing 138 kilovolt (kV) transmission system to the proposed Franco Wash Switchyard, located south of the Tucson International Airport. This upgrade will support new aerospace development and other supply chain industries planned for the 500-acre business campus with no impact on service reliability for other customers.

Public input is an important part of TEP’s planning process. We encourage neighbors and other stakeholders to share their comments using one of the public participation methods listed below.

Project Details

Maps

Project Benefits

Service for growing energy needs. New infrastructure will help meet customers’ current and future energy needs. The new line will tie into TEP’s 138 kV transmission system to accommodate increasing energy demands.

Support for job growth and economic development. TEP works closely with commercial customers to support their electric needs. New transmission facilities will support new commercial businesses at the Aerospace Research Campus, including American Battery Factory ’s official headquarters and its first battery cell gigafactory in the United States. The factory, which will be located south of South Raytheon and South Aerospace parkways, will produce lithium iron phosphate battery cells and has long-term plans to add 1,000 jobs to the region.

Public Participation

Required Approvals and Timeline

Under state law, TEP must secure a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility (CEC) before to build the transmission line. TEP plans to file a CEC application in October 2023 with the Arizona Power Plant and Transmission Line Siting Committee, which reviews CEC applications in a public process that allows neighbors and other stakeholders to provide comments. TEP plans to participate in a public hearing before the Arizona Power Plant and Transmission Line Siting Committee in December. The Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) must review and approve the CEC before TEP can begin construction.

Outreach Materials