Frequently Asked Questions

Grid United is the developer of Pecos West. Grid United is an independent transmission company developing the infrastructure needed to create a more resilient and efficient electric system to the benefit of all consumers.

Pecos West is collaborating with local stakeholders to determine a preliminary route for the transmission line. Pecos West will link the rapidly growing metro area of El Paso, Texas, with southeastern New Mexico to connect the Western and Eastern Interconnections of the U.S. electric grid.

Pecos West is in the planning and development phase, collaborating with local stakeholders to determine a preliminary route for the transmission line. Construction would commence after Pecos West obtains the necessary regulatory approvals and secures all needed land rights. Pecos West could be operational in the mid-2030s.

Pecos West will be open to transmitting electrical power of all generation sources. Regulations governing the grid require the project to carry electricity without preference for any energy source.

By utilizing direct current (DC) technology, Pecos West can send electricity in either direction, east or west. Pecos West can serve to balance the electricity needs in the Western and Eastern Interconnections by transporting electricity when and where it is needed.

Direct current (DC) is the preferred technology for moving large amounts of power over long distances. DC transmission can transfer the same amount of power more efficiently and more reliably than an alternating current system. DC advantages include less electrical losses on the line, the ability to control the power flow bidirectionally, and better land use due to smaller infrastructural footprints.

America’s electric grid, originally built in the early 20th century, powered the United States’ rise as an economic powerhouse. Today, however, 70% of our power lines are over 30 years old, and the way power is generated and where energy resources are located have evolved. Aging infrastructure, increasing energy demand, the critical need for energy security, and more frequent weather-related power disruptions demand immediate action to strengthen and modernize our grid.

Pecos West’s high-capacity, bidirectional connection between regional generation and transmission hubs is designed to improve nationwide grid reliability and resiliency. The line will increase transfer capacity and access to generation in new energy.

Enhanced power grid reliability in the Desert Southwest strengthens the region's resilience against power outages, supports economic growth, and ensures a stable power supply for industrial and commercial operations. Pecos West would allow for grid operators to transfer surplus generation to regions experiencing deficits, thereby optimizing the use of existing power generation.

Pecos West will coordinate with local utilities for long-term operation and maintenance of the transmission line.