Update on Baku – Gavin 765 kV Transmission Line Project

Ohio Farm Bureau Director of Director, Energy, Utility and Local Government Policy Dale Arnold has prepared this update on the Baku – Gavin 765 kV Transmission Line Project.

AEP Transmission is proposing upgrades and new construction of their transmission network serving southern Ohio. This project focuses on construction of approximately 50 miles of 765 kV transmission line through sections of Pike, Jackson and Gallia counties. The proposal is part of the Piketon Area improvements Project.

AEP has sent preliminary information to landowners potentially impacted by the project. The information details In-Person Public Information Meetings scheduled in the area, as well as the company’s project schedule. Legal meeting notices in local newspapers and on company social media will follow. AEP Transmission’s website has all the information.

AEP Transmission expects to apply for a “Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need” to the Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB) by mid-year 2026. Meanwhile, the company is working on facility planning, siting, field surveys, and right-of-way communications concerning the project. Accordingly, the project has been assigned OPSB Case Docket Number 26-0426-EL-BTX. The case is currently in “Pre-Application” status.

Additional information resources include:

Ohio Power Siting Board: Given the size and kilovolt (kV) capacity of the project, its permit comes under the jurisdiction of the Ohio Power Siting Board. Here is the OPSB website.

Here is basic information about the OPSB application process and how you can get involved.

Information concerning permit proceedings and public comments can be accessed via the Case Record for 26-0426-EL-BTX. All information on the Case Record is free and a matter of public record

OPSB Docket Information System and Subscription Service: This link takes you to the OPSB Docket information System (DIS).

Using the Case Docket Number detailed above, you can create your own free subscription to follow case proceedings, identify Parties of Record, examine case documents, as well as look through public comments made by interested parties.

When visiting the Docketing Information System page, look for the the “Subscribe and E-file” heading in the “On-Line Services and Information” section in the bottom center of the page.

You will be taken to the OHID center where you can create your account with your own username and password. When the system asks you to identify the case you want to monitor, use the OPSB Case Docket Number assigned to the project: 26-0426-EL-BTX

Farm Bureau members wanting to know more about project developments in their neighborhoods are encouraged to attend the initial In-Person Public Information Meetings scheduled in their area. Dates, times and locations for these events can be accessed at the AEP Transmission website.

The Ohio Farm Bureau Federation is working closely with leadership and members of the Gallia, Jackson and Pike County Farm Bureaus. Additional local briefings for members are planned. Contact your county Farm Bureau office for more information:

Office: 740-286-4598