Project FAQs and Permitting
The following frequently asked questions are related to our project development process. Please visit the Upstate Upgrade FAQ page for more information.
Project FAQs
- Why are the projects needed?
- What are the timelines for the projects?
- Will these projects interrupt my service?
- Will trees be trimmed along project corridors?
- Will National Grid be acquiring property and easements?
- Can National Grid use or cross private property without permission?
- What noise will there be during constriction?
- How will you protect my land during construction?
Permitting
New York State Public Service Law requires review of large energy transmission projects under two categories – Article VII and Non-Article VII. Smaller projects under the Upstate Upgrade (like substation upgrades) may require only local permitting.
Article VII
Under Article VII of the State Public Service Law, major transmission projects are thoroughly evaluated by the New York State Public Service Commission for all potential impacts from the project, including a detailed environmental assessment. The Department of Public Service has published an informative guide on the Article VII process, including information for how the general public may participate. and includes information for the public to participate in the process.
As part of the Article VII review, National Grid will apply for a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need, which is reviewed and granted or rejected by the Public Service Commission. If granted, National Grid will then submit its Environmental Management and Construction Plan for review and approval by the PSC. The Article VII process includes review of the transmission facility’s siting, design, construction, and operation.
National Grid will post filings to each project website as they are made available. The Department of Public Service will make all documents public on its website once they are filed.
Upstate Upgrade Article VII Projects:
Other New York State Permitting Requirements
Smaller transmission projects are subject to the requirements of Part 102 of the New York State Codes, Rules and Regulations, Installation of Non-Article VII Electric Transmission Facilities. National Grid will file reports containing project environmental and construction information for review by the Public Service Commission prior to project construction
Upstate Upgrade Part 102 Projects
Public Comment
National Grid invites comments from the public at any time during any project phase, permitting through construction. To contact National Grid with a question or comment, you may reach us by phone at 844-243-2592 or UpstateUpgrade@nationalgrid.com.
The Article VII process offers specific opportunities for public involvement and comment. Once National Grid submits its applications to the Public Service Commission, interested persons who wish to participate as parties in this case may file for party status. This may be done through the PSC’s website and further instructions for each project will be posted on this website once a project’s application is submitted. Please see the project page for links and other information to participate as a party.
Other Permits
Some Upstate Upgrade projects may require permitting and review from other agencies based on findings of the design and fieldwork investigation. This may include, but is not limited to, local governments, where projects aren’t governed by Article VII or Part 102 as outlined above; the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, for any required federal approvals; Federal Aviation Administration, for any Notices of Proposed Construction or Alteration; NYS Department of Environmental Conservation for SPDES General Permits for Discharge from Construction Activities; and NYS Department of Transportation for utility work permits.
