News

2024

1/31/2024
- January 2024 update: south half complete, construction starting in north

PSE made major progress on the Energize Eastside project in 2023.

Transmission line construction in Newcastle was completed in September. The new transmission lines from Renton to south Bellevue and the new Richards Creek substation were then energized, marking the completion of the southern portion of the project.

Additionally, the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for the north Bellevue segment of the project was approved by the Hearing Examiner on December 22, 2023. This is the final CUP needed to complete construction of Energize Eastside. The Hearing Examiner’s decision was based on a comprehensive record, including about 15,000 pages of application materials, studies by PSE and independent experts retained by Bellevue and the other Partner Cities during the Final Environmental Impact Statement process, analysis by Bellevue’s Department of Development Services as well as extensive testimony from the public. To read the City of Bellevue’s Hearing Examiner decision, you can find it on the City's website.

PSE’s contractor, Wilson Construction, has begun meeting with property owners along the corridor in Redmond and north Bellevue about construction and landscaping plans. Construction in Redmond will start in February, with north Bellevue to follow. For more information on construction activities, visit our construction webpage.

2023

5/18/2023
- May 2023 Update: Construction starting in Newcastle

Work is starting on the last portion of the south half of the transmission line in Newcastle

05/18/2023 –Energize Eastside transmission line construction continues to progress

Transmission line construction moving forward

Transmission line construction for the Energize Eastside project is largely complete in both south Bellevue and Renton. Starting this month, PSE’s contractor Wilson Construction will begin construction activities in Newcastle. Wilson has met with nearly all of the property owners along the corridor in Newcastle. In the coming weeks, crews will begin preparing the corridor for construction and vegetation removal. They will then construct new poles and remove old poles through this section. Visit our construction webpage. for more pictures of construction from Renton and Bellevue.

Construction continues on the new Richards Creek substation in Bellevue. Once the southern portion of the project is complete this summer, the new transmission lines will be connected to the substation so that it can be energized.

For more information on construction activities, visit our construction webpage.

2022

12/28/2022
- Major progress made on Energize Eastside this year
Progress continues on the Energize Eastside project, with crews recently completing construction of the new 230 kV transmission lines in Renton and south Bellevue. Additionally, crews made major progress with replanting this fall, installing thousands of plants along the corridor. Restoration and replanting are complete in Renton and will wrap up in south Bellevue in spring 2023. In Newcastle, PSE’s contractor has been reaching out and meeting with property owners about construction and landscaping plans. Work will begin early next year on the Newcastle portion of the project.

Thank you for your continued patience during the construction of this important project. For more information on construction activities, please visit our Construction webpage.

New transmission poles in Renton, with completed restoration and newly installed landscaping
5/4/2022
- City of Newcastle approves PSE’s Energize Eastside permit
Puget Sound Energy’s Energize Eastside project has achieved another major milestone, with the City of Newcastle Hearing Examiner’s approval of the Conditional Use Permit for the Newcastle portion of the project. This decision moves the project one step closer to completion, advancing a more dependable power grid for Eastside residents and businesses.

"Thank you to the City and the Hearing Examiner for their time and work reviewing this important project. We’re pleased with this decision and are excited to continue moving forward on this critical project to benefit the Eastside," said Dan Koch, Vice President of Operations.

The Energize Eastside project proposes to use the existing transmission line corridor that has served the area for nearly 100 years. The last major upgrade to the backbone of the Eastside’s electric grid was in the 1960s. Since then, the area’s population has grown eight-fold and our economy relies on power in ways that it did not over 60 years ago.

The project will improve the capacity and reliability of the Eastside’s electric grid by building a new substation and upgrading the existing transmission lines from 115 kilovolts (kV) to 230 kV. By using the existing corridor, impacts to communities and the environment are limited as compared to a new corridor. Combined with continued conservation, the project will keep the lights on for the Eastside’s growing communities for years to come.

The Hearing Examiner’s decision was based on a comprehensive record, including about 15,000 pages of application materials, studies by PSE and independent experts retained by Newcastle and the other Partner Cities during the Final Environmental Impact Statement process, analysis by Newcastle’s Department of Community Development as well as extensive testimony from the public.

To read the City of Newcastle’s Hearing Examiner decision, you can find it on the City's website.
5/4/2022
- May 2022 Update: Energize Eastside transmission line construction progresses, wrapping up in Renton and starting in south Bellevue.
Transmission line construction wraps up in Renton and work begins in south Bellevue

Transmission line construction moving forward

Transmission line construction for the Energize Eastside project is wrapping up in Renton and is beginning in south Bellevue. PSE’s contractor, Wilson Construction, has been busy meeting with property owners along the corridor in south Bellevue. Crews have also begun site preparation, including removing vegetation in some areas. These activities will continue, and crews will begin construction of new poles and removal of old poles. We'll continue to keep nearby residents and businesses informed of our work and property-specific activities.

Construction continues for the Richards Creek substation
PSE is currently constructing the new Richards Creek substation in Bellevue. Construction started in September 2020. We aim to continue and complete the work safely, efficiently, and in a way that minimizes disruptions. We'll keep the local community informed of our work and progress.
For more information on construction activities, visit our Construction webpage.

Crews construct the first pole of the Energize Eastside 230 kV transmission line in Renton

2021

8/27/2021
- August 2021 Update: Energize Eastside transmission line construction begins and north half permitting continues

Transmission line construction is starting for the Energize Eastside project

Construction will begin in Renton in September 2021. Upcoming construction activities will include additional site preparation (including vegetation removal), construction of new poles and removal of old poles, demobilization and clean-up, and restoration. We'll keep nearby residents and businesses informed of our work and property-specific activities. For more information on transmission line construction activities, visit our Construction webpage.

Construction continues for the Richards Creek substation

PSE is currently constructing the new Richards Creek substation in Bellevue. Construction started in September 2020 and is expected to be complete in fall 2021. We aim to continue and complete the work safely, efficiently, and in a way that minimizes disruptions. We'll keep the local community informed of our work and progress. For more information on the substation's construction activities, visit our Construction webpage.

Permitting process moving forward

We have received permits for the southern portion of the project in Renton and south Bellevue. Additionally, we have submitted Conditional Land Use Permit (CUP) applications for the northern portion of the project in north Bellevue and Redmond.

Each city has their own unique permitting process that includes opportunities for public involvement. We look forward to continuing to progress through the permitting process. Once we have the necessary permits, we'll begin construction on the northern portion of the project.

2020

10/15/2020
- Fall 2020 Update: Energize Eastside substation construction begins and permitting moves ahead
Progress continues on PSE’s Energize Eastside project – with construction underway on the new Richards Creek substation, the recent King County Superior Court decision denying opponent’s appeals, and the City of Newcastle permitting public hearing expected this fall.

Richards Creek substation construction underway

With the City of Bellevue’s issuance of construction permits for the new Richards Creek substation, the Energize Eastside project has reached a critical milestone. Construction of the new substation in south Bellevue is underway and is the first step in constructing the project.

The Richards Creek substation, which will be connected to the electric grid by upgrading transmission lines in the existing corridor between Redmond and Renton, will provide additional capacity to ensure the Eastside’s electric system can accommodate our customers’ growing energy needs into the future.

The substation construction work will be phased and is expected to continue through fall 2021. We aim to complete the work safely, efficiently, and in a way that minimizes disruptions. We’ll keep the local community informed of our work and progress. For more information on the substation’s construction activities, visit our Construction webpage.

Permitting process moving forward

The project continues to advance through each individual jurisdiction’s permitting process – we’ve received Conditional Land Use Permit (CUP) approvals for south Bellevue and Renton, and anticipate a permitting-related hearing in Newcastle later this year.

Consistent with our phased construction approach, PSE has focused on permitting the south half of the project first. PSE's plan is to build and energize the new Richards Creek substation in Bellevue and upgrade the transmission lines in south Bellevue, Newcastle, and Renton first, then construct the northern portion in north Bellevue and Redmond. We expect to begin construction of the southern transmission lines in spring 2021 after we’ve worked through the necessary permitting process. Additionally, we’ve initiated the permitting process for the north half of the project.

King County Superior Court decision denies opponent’s appeals

On Sept. 21, 2020, King County Superior Court published the decision to deny appeals by project opponents. We’re pleased with the Court’s decision, which upholds City of Bellevue’s approval of a Conditional Land Use Permit for the south Bellevue portion of the project.

The decisions by the Superior Court, Bellevue City Council and Bellevue Hearing Examiner, as well as the City of Bellevue staff report’s conclusions, were based on the project’s extensive record. The 15,000-page record demonstrates that Energize Eastside is in accordance with the City’s land use code and affirms the need for the project to address the reliability of the Eastside’s electric grid.

2019

12/6/2019
- Project Update: Bellevue City Council vote advances Energize Eastside
On Nov. 14, 2019, the Bellevue City Council voted 6-0 to deny appeals by project opponents. We are pleased with the Council’s vote as it’s another step forward for the Energize Eastside project.

With this vote, the Council confirmed the City staff’s recommendation and the Hearing Examiner’s decision to approve a Conditional Use Permit for the south Bellevue portion of the project. Their conclusions were based on the extensive project record, which includes studies by the City’s own transmission expert and the Partner Cities’ State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) consultant. All these studies independently confirmed that the project is needed to address the reliability of the Eastside’s electric grid, including in Bellevue.

Combined with electric conservation, Energize Eastside will keep the lights on for the Eastside’s growing communities for years to come. Stay tuned for updates!

Learn more
- To view the Bellevue Hearing Examiner’s decision approving the south Bellevue portion of the project, visit the City’s website.
- PSE continues to meet with property owners along the existing corridor to discuss our plans and how we’ll replace trees once the project is complete. To learn more, visit our webpage for property owners.
6/27/2019
- City of Bellevue approves PSE’s Energize Eastside permit
Puget Sound Energy’s Energize Eastside project has achieved another key milestone as the City of Bellevue Hearing Examiner approves a Conditional Use Permit for the south Bellevue portion of the project. The decision moves the project another step closer to construction and advances a more dependable power grid for Eastside residents and businesses.

“We’re pleased with this decision and look forward to moving forward on this critical reliability project,” Keri Pravitz, Community Projects Manager, said, “We appreciate the care the City and the Hearing Examiner took to review the project.”

The Hearing Examiner’s decision was based on an extensive record. The record includes about 15,000 pages of application materials, studies by PSE and independent experts retained by Bellevue and the other Partner Cities during the Final Environmental Impact Statement process, analysis by Bellevue’s Department of Development Services and testimony from the public hearing that allowed every interested stakeholder the opportunity to present and voice views on the project’s application.

“Energize Eastside is important to the health and vitality of the entire Eastside community– from neighborhoods and businesses to schools, hospitals and manufacturers– we all depend on safe, reliable power,” Pravitz said.

Pravitz explained that the Energize Eastside project proposes to use the existing transmission line corridor that has served the area for nearly 100 years. The last major upgrade to this “backbone” of the Eastside’s electric grid was in the 1960s. Since then, the area’s population has grown eight-fold, and the demands residents and businesses place on the system have increased dramatically.

The project will improve the capacity and reliability of the Eastside’s electric grid by building a new substation and upgrading existing transmission lines. By using the existing corridor, impacts to communities and the environment are limited, which was confirmed in Bellevue’s approval of permit applications for the project elements located in south Bellevue. Combined with continued electric conservation, the project will keep the lights on for the Eastside’s growing communities for years to come.

To read the City of Bellevue’s Hearing Examiner decision, you can find it on the City's website under the Public Hearing tab.
1/28/2019
- Bellevue staff recommends approval of Energize Eastside’s permits
With the City of Bellevue’s Land Use Division Staff Report recommending approval of PSE’s permits, the Energize Eastside project moves another step closer to construction and a more dependable grid.

The City’s staff report recommends approving PSE’s permits for the southern portion of the project in Bellevue with some specific conditions, which include requirements for tree replacement and safety. The staff report and the City’s public hearing(s) are critical next steps in the permitting process.

We look forward to continuing to progress through the permitting process. Once we have the necessary permits, we’ll begin construction.

For more information on the City of Bellevue’s staff report and permitting next steps, visit the City’s website.

2018

12/27/2018
- Progress continues on Energize Eastside
Building on our commitment to deliver safe, dependable electricity

2019 will be a busy year for the Energize Eastside project!

We expect the cities of Bellevue, Newcastle and Renton will hold public hearings for the southern portion of the project in early 2019.

Once we have our permits, construction will follow. In addition, we’ll continue to meet with property owners to discuss landscape and tree replacement and share project next steps.

We look forward to building on our commitment to deliver safe and dependable electricity to Eastside homes, businesses and communities. Building a new substation and replacing 1960s-era poles and wires in the existing corridor is the right solution for our growing communities and the environment. Energize Eastside will help keep the lights on for Eastside homes and businesses for years to come.

Stay tuned for updates!
10/3/2018
- Is battery storage a solution for the Eastside’s energy needs?
Despite the progress made by the energy storage industry in recent years, an updated analysis concluded that battery storage is still not a practical solution to meet the Eastside transmission system capacity deficiency.

“Strategen does not believe energy storage to be a practical option to meet the Eastside transmission capacity deficiency, either as an alternative to the proposed transmission solution or as a way to defer it."
-Strategen Consulting, Eastside System Energy Storage Alternatives Assessment Report Update - September 2018
An Eastside battery project would:

Be significantly more expensive than PSE’s plan to upgrade transmission lines along the existing corridor. Battery storage would cost approximately $825 million for a short-term solution and $1.4 billion for the complete solution, compared to an estimated $150 million to $300 million for Energize Eastside.

Require a huge battery farm on a scale that has never been built. To meet Eastside demand, a battery project would be up to 43 times larger than the world’s largest operational project (Tesla’s Hornsdale project in South Australia).

Exceed the supply of energy storage systems. The commercial and supply-chain viability of an energy storage system for the Eastside area is unclear as it would exceed total U.S. energy storage deployments in 2017 by approximately 6-13 times.

PSE’s Energize Eastside project remains the right solution, and by upgrading the infrastructure on the existing corridor, it limits impacts on Eastside communities.

View the full report for more information.

Click the image to enlarge bar graph.

Hornsdale Power Reserve (shown above) is the world’s largest operational battery project and is approximately 43 times smaller than what would be needed for the Eastside.
9/12/2018
- Summer 2018 Update
Rising temperatures, increased energy needs

It’s been another hot summer! Over the years, we’ve seen more and more electric demand during the summertime as customers add air conditioning to their homes. Because of that growth, conservation is more important than ever. However, conservation alone cannot ensure reliable electricity for Eastside communities.

PSE plans for customer demand by constantly monitoring the health of our system and investing in infrastructure projects like Energize Eastside that keep the system reliable. Energize Eastside’s combination of continued conservation, upgraded transmission lines along the existing corridor, and a new substation will keep Eastside lights on for years to come.

While summer may be waning, there are ways you can use less energy and lower your energy bill no matter the weather:
- Turn off unnecessary lights and switch out any conventional light bulbs with LEDs, which produce 70 percent less heat.
- Unplug power cords when equipment isn't in use or use power strips that you can switch off when not in use. Special "smart" power strips do this automatically.
For more information, visit PSE's Energy-Saving Tips page.

Permitting process continues

The permitting process continues for the southern portion of the project in south Bellevue, Newcastle and Renton, and we anticipate the respective cities will hold public hearings this fall. For details on each city’s permitting process and public participation opportunities and links to learn more, visit EnergizeEastsideEIS.org.

Making plans for trees

We continue to meet with property owners along the existing corridor to discuss our plans and how we'll replace trees once the project is complete. Our goal is for there to be more trees when the project is complete, not fewer. To schedule a meeting to discuss your property, call our info line at 1-800-548-2614, ext. 1.

Learn more
- For more information, review our interactive map and photo simulations.
- Be part of the solution! Sign up for a home energy assessment to learn how your home uses energy and receive recommendations for other ways to save energy. Visit pse.com/energyassessment.
5/7/2018
- Spring 2018 Project Update
2018 is a big year for upgrading the Eastside's electric grid

Environmental review complete

The extensive, multi-year environmental review process recently wrapped up with publication of the Partner Cities’ Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

The nearly 5,000-page Final EIS affirms that the project can be safely built and operated and that by replacing poles and wires along the existing corridor, we limit impacts on Eastside communities. To learn more about the Final EIS, visit EnergizeEastsideEIS.org.

Making plans for trees and envisioning the future

Spring is here, and we’re meeting with property owners along the existing corridor to develop landscape and tree replacement plans! These plans illustrate how we’ll restore yards and replace trees once the project is complete. Our goal is for there to be more trees when the project is complete, not fewer.

Permitting process is underway

Permit applications for the southern portion of the project, which includes the new Richards Creek substation and the upgraded transmission lines in south Bellevue, Newcastle and Renton, are already under review by their respective cities. The next major permit applications to be submitted are for the northern portion of the project in Bellevue and Redmond.

Once we have permits, construction will follow

Project construction will start with the southern portion, which is anticipated to begin later this year. Once the southern portion is complete, we’ll continue with construction of the northern portion.

We’ll keep property owners and the community up to date on project progress.

Thank you to our customers

As Energize Eastside continues through permitting and moves into construction this year, I want to thank the community for engaging with PSE on this critical project. PSE’s core mission is to efficiently deliver safe, dependable electricity to homes, businesses and communities.

PSE’s core mission is to efficiently deliver safe, dependable electricity to homes, businesses and communities. Four years ago, our studies — confirmed by independent experts— revealed our transmission grid is strained today under peak conditions, just at the time when our customers need reliable power the most.

Community feedback has helped us understand customer concerns, shaped the project design, and guided our route decision. This engagement continues today through property owner conversations, stakeholder briefings, and permitting meetings.

We appreciate the extensive dialogue and understand that building an infrastructure project of this magnitude has an impact on our communities. Yet, an unreliable electric grid affects everyone, including hospitals, first responders, schools, businesses, and residents. Energize Eastside will ensure reliable power for the Eastside’s innovative, growing communities.

Thank you,

Booga Gilbertson, Senior Vice President of Operations, PSE

For more information
- Read our full Spring 2018 newsletter.
- For information about the project, including maps and photo simulations, visit pse.com/energizeeastside.
- To learn more about the Bellevue, Kirkland, Newcastle, Redmond and Renton Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), visit EnergizeEastsideEIS.org.
About Energize Eastside

The backbone of the Eastside’s electric grid was last upgraded in the 1960s. Since then, our population has grown eight-fold, and now the grid is being pushed beyond its capacity.

PSE’s Energize Eastside project will build a new substation and upgrade existing transmission lines in the existing transmission line corridor. Along with continued electric conservation, Energize Eastside will keep the lights on for years to come.
3/6/2018
- Cities issue Final EIS; Energize Eastside moves another step closer to construction
With publication of the Cities’ Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), PSE’s Energize Eastside project moves another step closer to construction and a more reliable electric grid. The Final EIS is the culmination of an extensive, nearly three-year-long environmental review process.

While we are still reviewing all the details in the Final EIS — more than 4,800 pages in length — it affirms that the project can be safely built and operated and that by replacing poles and wires along the existing corridor, we limit impacts to Eastside communities.

We appreciate the thoroughness of the analyses conducted by the Partner Cities and the EIS Team, along with the comments shared by community members and other stakeholders. The EIS process was led by the City of Bellevue in partnership with the cities of Kirkland, Newcastle, Redmond and Renton.

Permitting review underway, construction to follow

With completion of the environmental review process, we will continue to work through the permitting process in each jurisdiction. Permits are needed so PSE can build the project. Each permitting agency will use the EIS analysis to inform and support their decision-making process for permits. The next major permit applications to be submitted are for the northern portion of the project in Bellevue and Redmond.

We anticipate beginning construction once we have received our permits for the southern portion of the project. Project construction will start with the new Richards Creek substation and the upgraded transmission lines in south Bellevue, Newcastle and Renton. Construction will then continue with the northern transmission lines in Bellevue and Redmond.

PSE is committed to designing, building and operating the project safely to protect our customers, crews, and the communities we work in. We will continue to keep property owners and the community informed of our progress.

Learn more
- The Final EIS provides an independent evaluation of the project, the limited potential impacts, and associated recommended mitigation measures. To view the Final EIS and learn more about the environmental review process under the State Environmental Policy Act, visit EnergizeEastsideEIS.org.
- Energize Eastside will build a new substation and upgrade existing transmission lines from Renton to Redmond in the same transmission line corridor that has served Eastside communities for more than 80 years. Together with continued aggressive electric conservation, Energize Eastside will keep the lights on for years to come. View photo simulations of the existing corridor and what the upgraded transmission lines might look like.
- PSE continues to meet with property owners along the existing transmission line corridor in advance of construction to talk about property-specific design, landscaping and tree replacement planning. To schedule a meeting to discuss your property, call our info line at 1-800-548-2614, ext. 1.
1/26/2018
- PSE submits last major permit application for south half
Energize Eastside continues to move forward, with the permitting process in full swing for the south half of the project. PSE has submitted Conditional Use Permit (CUP) applications in south Bellevue, Newcastle, and now Renton. Permits are needed so PSE can build and energize the project this year.

We expect the cities will take action on these permit applications after the Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is published (anticipated in early 2018). The next major applications to be submitted will be for the northern portion of the project in Bellevue and Redmond.

Let’s talk – meet with us to discuss tree replacement planning for Energize Eastside

PSE continues to meet with property owners along the existing transmission line corridor to talk about property-specific design, landscaping and tree replacement planning. Our goal is for there to be more trees when the project is complete, not fewer.

Landscape and tree replacement plans (like the example shown on the right) are in development to help property owners envision how their yard could look once the project is complete.

To schedule a meeting to discuss your property, call our info line at 1-800-548-2614, ext. 1.

Learn more
- For details about PSE’s final route, which replaces poles along the existing transmission line corridor, review our announcement and video.
- View photo simulations to see what the new transmission lines might look like.

2017

11/10/2017
- Permitting process moves ahead for Energize Eastside
PSE has submitted permit applications for south Bellevue and Newcastle. Permits are needed so PSE can build and energize the new Richards Creek substation in Bellevue and upgrade the transmission lines in south Bellevue, Newcastle, and Renton by summer 2018.
Permit applications for the rest of the southern portion of the project in Renton will be submitted later this fall. Each city has their own unique permitting process that includes opportunities for public involvement.

PSE anticipates submitting permit applications for the northern portion in Bellevue and Redmond in late 2017-early 2018.

Questions about your property? Meet with PSE

PSE continues to meet with property owners along the existing transmission line corridor to talk about property-specific details, including landscaping and tree replacement planning. To schedule a meeting to discuss your property, call our info line at 1-800-548-2614, ext. 1.

Learn more

For details about PSE’s final route that will replace poles along the existing transmission line corridor, review our announcement and video.

View photo simulations to see what the new transmission lines might look like.
9/18/2017
- PSE submits permit application for Energize Eastside through south Bellevue
Progress on Energize Eastside continues with PSE submitting its first permit application to the City of Bellevue. PSE plans to build and energize the new Richards Creek substation in Bellevue and upgrade the existing transmission lines in south Bellevue, Newcastle and Renton by the summer of 2018.

Permit applications for the rest of the southern portion of the project in Newcastle and Renton will be submitted this fall. After that, PSE anticipates submitting permit applications for the northern portion in Bellevue and Redmond in late 2017 – early 2018.

For more information about PSE’s final route, referred to as Willow 1, review our announcement and video.
8/29/2017
- Fieldwork continues; Archaeological resources surveys begin
PSE and our contractors continue to conduct fieldwork to inform the design and permitting process for Energize Eastside. Utility mapping surveys are ongoing. Starting in August, PSE’s contractor Historical Research Associates (HRA) will begin archaeological resources surveys.

HRA’s archaeologists will visit properties to assess the potential presence of artifacts and/or features older than 50 years old. Some examples of these resources could include prehistoric stone tools and historic-period metal and glass items. For properties where poles and/or construction sites are proposed, archaeologists will conduct a “shovel probe” by digging shallow holes to identify artifacts or evidence of past human activities. HRA will fill the holes prior to departing each property.

We are committed to keeping property owners and tenants informed when our crews will be working on their property and will provide advance notification. These surveys will typically be conducted on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

For more information about utility mapping and archaeological resources surveys, visit our fieldwork webpage.
8/8/2017
- PSE has selected the existing corridor as the final route for Energize Eastside
After nearly four years of study and extensive dialogue with Eastside communities, PSE has selected the existing corridor “Willow 1” route as the final route to permit for Energize Eastside.

Click here to learn more about the final route.

PSE evaluated multiple route options and selected the existing corridor because it is the least impactful route to Eastside communities. Our decision was guided by two key factors:
1. Our commitment to safety. The project will be built and operated to the highest safety and engineering standards. Using the existing corridor, along with optimized designs and operations, the project can safely co-exist with Olympic Pipeline.
2. Our commitment to limit impacts to the environment. This route affects the fewest number of trees and avoids the construction of new corridors. We know our customers value trees. Our goal is for there to be more trees when the project is complete, not fewer.
PSE’s decision was shaped by community input through the Community Advisory Group process, open houses, neighborhood and stakeholder briefings, detailed engineering analysis, the Cities’ Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process, property owner meetings, and nearly 3,000 comments and questions.

We’re moving forward with permitting to keep the lights on

Reliable power is critical to Eastside communities’ health, safety and economic vitality. PSE will soon begin submitting permit applications for the southern portion of the project. PSE’s plan is to build and energize the new Richards Creek substation in Bellevue and upgrade the transmission lines in south Bellevue, Newcastle, and Renton by summer 2018. We anticipate submitting permit applications for the northern portion in Redmond and Bellevue later this year.

PSE will build Energize Eastside in two construction phases to keep the backbone of the existing transmission system online and serving customers. Once the southern portion is in service, PSE will begin work on the northern portion.

PSE will replace the poles in the existing corridor

Our plan is to upgrade the existing four wooden poles to one or two steel poles, which allows us to have fewer poles within the existing corridor. PSE is committed to keeping pole heights as low as possible. New poles will typically be in the same or similar locations as the existing poles. Click here to learn more about pole types and view photo simulations of the final route.

We’ll keep you up to date on the project

We appreciate the community’s input and ongoing interest in the project. During permitting and as we prepare for construction, we’ll continue to reach out to property owners and keep the community updated on our progress.

"As the Eastside community grows, it is PSE’s responsibility to keep the lights on. We’ve heard community members emphasize that the project must be safe and limit impacts to the environment. We agree. We’re committed to building and operating the project safely and limiting project impacts to the environment, which includes replacing trees. Our goal is that, when the project is complete, there will be more trees, not less.” - Booga Gilbertson, Senior Vice President of Operations

Next steps for Energize Eastside
- PSE will soon submit permit applications in Bellevue, Newcastle and Renton. PSE anticipates submitting permit applications for the northern portion in Redmond and north Bellevue later this year.
- PSE will continue to reach out to property owners to discuss property-specific design and landscaping and tree replacement plans.
- The project is currently undergoing environmental review, which includes preparation of a Washington State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The Phase 2 Draft EIS was published in May 2017, and the Final EIS is expected to be published in early 2018. The EIS process is led by the City of Bellevue in cooperation with the cities of Kirkland, Newcastle, Redmond and Renton. More information can be found at EnergizeEastsideEIS.org.
6/19/2017
- Public comment period extended for Energize Eastside Phase 2 Draft EIS
Comment period now ends July 6

The City of Bellevue and coordinating jurisdictions published the Phase 2 Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on May 8. The comment period for the Phase 2 Draft EIS has been extended and now ends on Thursday, July 6.

Submit your comments on the EIS

For more information on the EIS and to submit comments to be included as part of the EIS and the public record, please visit EnergizeEastsideEIS.org.

About the EIS

The Energize Eastside project is undergoing environmental review, which includes preparation of a Washington State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The City of Bellevue is leading the EIS process in coordination with Kirkland, Newcastle, Redmond and Renton. Visit EnergizeEastsideEIS.org for more information.

Please note: Comments or questions submitted to Puget Sound Energy will not be considered part of the EIS.

For background information about the Energize Eastside project, please visit pse.com/energizeeastside.
5/22/2017
- Utility mapping surveys begin
Beginning in May, PSE and our contractors are conducting utility mapping surveys. Information collected during fieldwork will inform the design and permitting process for Energize Eastside.

Field crews will locate and survey existing underground utilities at specific properties along the existing transmission line corridor. We are committed to keeping property owners and tenants informed when our crews will be working on their property and will provide advance notification. These surveys will typically be conducted on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

For more information about utility mapping surveys, visit our fieldwork webpage.
5/8/2017
- Public comment period open for Energize Eastside Phase 2 Draft EIS
Comment period is from May 8 through June 21

With the City of Bellevue and coordinating jurisdictions publishing the Phase 2 Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), Energize Eastside has moved into the next phase of the environmental review process. The 45-day comment period for the Phase 2 Draft EIS ends on Wednesday, June 21.

Submit your comments on the EIS

For more information on the EIS and to submit comments to be included as part of the EIS and the public record, please visit EnergizeEastsideEIS.org. You can also submit your comments in person by attending one of the hearings below:
- Newcastle and Renton: Oliver Hazen High, Tuesday, May 23, 6 - 8:30 p.m.
- Bellevue: Bellevue City Hall, Thursday, May 25, 6 - 9 p.m.
- Redmond: Rose Hill Elementary, Saturday, June 3, 2 - 4:30 p.m.
About the EIS

The Energize Eastside project is undergoing environmental review, which includes preparation of a Washington State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The City of Bellevue is leading the EIS process in coordination with Kirkland, Newcastle, Redmond and Renton. Visit EnergizeEastsideEIS.org for more information.

Please note: Comments or questions submitted to Puget Sound Energy will not be considered part of the EIS.

For background information about the Energize Eastside project, please visit pse.com/energizeeastside.
4/20/2017
- Independent experts confirm a solution is needed
Studies by nationally-recognized experts have come to the same conclusion: Energize Eastside is needed. The project’s infrastructure upgrades will accommodate local population and economic growth, while avoiding the need to plan for power outages in the very near future.

In addition to PSE’s transmission planning studies, independent consultants hired by City of Bellevue and the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) Team have also confirmed the need for the project. Excerpts from their reports are listed below.

Bellevue’s independent expert, Utility System Efficiencies, Inc. (USE), stated:
- Is the EE project needed to address the reliability of the electric grid on the Eastside? YES.
- If the load growth rate was reduced, would the project still be needed? YES.
- If generation was increased in the Puget Sound area, would the project still be needed? YES.
- Is there a need for the project to address regional flows, with imports/exports to Canada (ColumbiaGrid)? Modeling zero flow to Canada, the project is still necessary to address local need.
Independent Technical Analysis of Energize Eastside, by Utility Systems Efficiencies, Inc., April 28, 2015

The EIS subcontractor, Stantec, stated:

“Based on my expertise, I found that the PSE needs assessment was overall very thorough and applied methods considered to be the industry standard for planning of this nature. Based on the information that the needs assessment contains, I concur with the conclusion that there is a transmission capacity deficiency in PSE’s system on the Eastside that requires attention in the near future.” - Review Memo by Stantec Consulting Services, Inc., July 31, 2015

Additionally, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has weighed in on the subject. FERC rejected the assumptions and conclusions the project’s opposition argued in their complaint to FERC.

FERC, in rejecting these conclusions, stated:

“Contrary to Complainants’ vague allegations that the Respondents have violated [Federal transmission planning regulations], the record before us shows that [PSE] and the other Respondents have complied with the applicable transmission planning requirements.” - Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Oct. 21, 2015

To learn more about project need, take a look at the Eastside Need and Solution.
4/20/2017
- Spring 2017 project update
Where we stand today

The Eastside is outgrowing the backbone of the area's electric grid. Energize Eastside will build a new substation and upgrade approximately 18 miles of existing transmission lines from Renton to Redmond in the same transmission line corridor that has served Eastside communities for more than 80 years. Combined with continued aggressive electric conservation, Energize Eastside will keep the lights on in our communities for years to come.

Get involved!

You will have an opportunity to comment on the Phase 2 Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) once it is published later this spring. The Phase 2 Draft EIS will consider the potential impacts and mitigation associated with the project. For more details on the Cities’ EIS and comment opportunities, visit EnergizeEastsideEIS.org.

Upcoming fieldwork surveys

This year, Energize Eastside project members are conducting additional fieldwork surveys to refine our design and inform future permit submittals. You may see crews visiting properties along the existing corridor and conducting utility and archaeological resource surveys. In addition, we're at a point where we can begin developing property-specific landscaping and tree replacement plans with property owners. We'll be reaching out to affected property owners about these efforts.

We're not all old enough to remember ...

FIFTY YEARS! That’s how long it’s been since we last did a major upgrade of the backbone of the Eastside’s electric grid. During that span, the Eastside’s population has grown eight-fold, leading Northwest companies have been launched in our communities, and the need for electricity to power our homes and economy has grown. We’ve also learned how to conserve energy and become increasingly more energy efficient. But it’s not enough. We need Energize Eastside now.

Electricity is not just a convenience ...

... it's a necessity. It helps us live comfortably in our homes year-round, regardless of the weather. Safe and reliable electricity is essential for businesses, hospitals, schools, industry and homes. Electricity arrives at its destination at almost the same moment it is produced. When you flip a switch, the electric power is there for your use.

Behind the scenes, PSE employees are hard at work planning, operating and maintaining the complex electric transmission grid so it can reliably provide power to the homes and businesses that need it. Electric system reliability contributes to our quality of life and economic wellbeing, and is essential for economic growth.

Is demand for energy really growing?

Yes! On the Eastside, customer electric power demand – the amount of energy used at one moment – has been growing dramatically in recent years. We see demand peaks daily, especially on winter evenings when customers get home, turn on their appliances and plug in their electronics, and during the summer when more customers use air conditioning. And we have more customers than ever before driving those demand peaks. Energize Eastside will ensure the electric grid can handle this growth into the future.

Four questions for the Energize Eastside project team

Read the full newsletter, including four questions with the project team's answers to learn more about improving reliability, safety, community involvement and more!
4/12/2017
- Energize Eastside fieldwork continues
PSE and our contractors will be back out in the field this year to conduct additional fieldwork surveys along the existing transmission line corridor. Data gathered from these on-the-ground surveys will help us refine our design and inform future permit submittals for the Energize Eastside project. This year’s effort is a continuation of the fieldwork program we started in 2015, and will include site visits, as well as detailed utility and archaeological resource surveys.

In April, you may see field crews on sidewalks and other public rights of way along the existing corridor. If we need to access private property, we will work to notify the property owner or tenant. Our fieldwork crews will have a letter verifying they are under contract with PSE and are authorized to conduct surveys.

View our Fieldwork page to learn more.
1/19/2017
- Architectural surveying going on through February
Over the next few weeks you may see staff from Historical Research Associates (HRA) conducting an architectural survey of properties along the existing utility corridor and in the Factoria area. HRA is collecting data on buildings and structures nearing 40 years of age or older, taking photographs, and documenting architectural details related to style, design, materials and workmanship.

This architectural survey will inform the permitting process for Energize Eastside. The data gathered will help PSE and government agencies, including the Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation, understand the historic character and significance of buildings and structures along the route options. We will use the data to meet planning and review responsibilities under existing local, state and federal regulations and procedures.

This is an observational survey, so HRA’s two-person field team is conducting this work from sidewalks and other public rights of ways. HRA’s staff will not enter private properties. We expect the survey will be completed in February 2017.

Review our flyer for more details.

2016

12/13/2016
- Study: Energize Eastside can be safely colocated with pipelines
Expert Confirms Safety; Submitted for Analysis in EIS Process

Puget Sound Energy announced today the findings of a safety study for the Energize Eastside project. The study conducted by DNV GL, a national pipeline safety consulting firm, confirms that Energize Eastside can be safely colocated with Olympic Pipe Line Company’s pipelines throughout the existing corridor. PSE has submitted the report for analysis in the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process.

“Safety is our top priority. We’re encouraged by DNV GL’s confirmation that Energize Eastside and Olympic’s pipelines can be safely colocated within the existing corridor, just as we have done for the past 40 years,” said Jens Nedrud, PSE’s senior project manager for Energize Eastside.

“DNV GL’s safety study truly highlights the value of the EIS process where an issue is raised by the community, then studied by experts. It’s given us additional information to consider as we continue to evaluate our routes and design options for the project,” added Nedrud.

DNV GL’s detailed study considered project-specific variables associated with the upgraded transmission lines and Olympic’s pipelines. The study concluded that by optimizing the design and operation the route using the existing corridor, called Willow 1, falls in the low corrosion risk category. The route that combines the existing corridor with the Newport Way area, called Willow 2, falls in the “unpredictable” category, which means that corrosion may or may not occur, so Olympic would need to monitor the pipelines and determine whether pipeline mitigation is necessary in the future.

“We’ve learned that the Willow 1 route has the lowest risk of pipeline corrosion and avoids pipeline mitigation,” explained Nedrud. “The optimized design means slightly taller poles in Somerset, where we know safety, pole heights and views are key concerns. Pole heights would go up from the proposed 65 feet to 75 feet, which is still shorter than some of our earlier designs.”

As for optimizing operations, the study recommended that PSE should run both lines at the same voltage. PSE’s initial plan was to operate the lines at 230 kilovolts (kV) and 115 kV, respectively, with both designed to operate at 230 kV to accommodate long-term growth. Nedrud explained that PSE learned that for pipeline safety it is best to operate both lines at 230 kV from day one.

“We’ve learned a lot from this study. And, it is also one more piece of information for analysis in the EIS,” added Nedrud. “We look forward to the Phase 2 Draft EIS that will holistically consider all of the potential impacts and mitigation associated with the project. As the EIS process moves forward, we will continue to evaluate all of our routes and design options.”

Next steps for Energize Eastside
- The project is currently undergoing environmental review, which includes preparation of a Washington State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) EIS.
- The Phase 2 Draft EIS is anticipated in the first quarter of 2017.
- The EIS process is led by the City of Bellevue in cooperation with the cities of Kirkland, Newcastle, Redmond and Renton. More information can be found at EnergizeEastsideEIS.org.
- PSE will continue to listen and learn as the project and EIS process continue.
11/22/2016
- Energize Eastside Upgrades Existing Power Lines
The Energize Eastside project upgrades existing power lines in a utility corridor that has served Eastside communities for more than 80 years. Currently, the project is in the middle of a public Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process that identifies environmental impacts and mitigation associated with the upgrade.

Overview: Keeping the Lights on for Years to Come

The backbone of the Eastside’s electric transmission grid saw its last major upgrade more than 50 years ago in the 1960s. Since then, our population has grown eight-fold. Studies project that Eastside growth and demand for electricity could exceed the grid’s capacity as soon as the winter of 2017-18. Independent analyses affirm that we need to upgrade the system now to avoid having to plan for rolling blackouts in the very near future.

The Energize Eastside project will address this need by building a new substation and upgrading approximately 18 miles of transmission lines from Redmond to Renton. Combined with continued aggressive conservation efforts, Energize Eastside will allow Eastside homes and businesses to keep the lights on for years to come.

Limiting Impact on Neighborhoods and the Environment

Pole height, view impacts and safety are key concerns for residents along the corridor. The Energize Eastside project replaces the existing four poles with one or two poles, and avoids new corridors and sensitive areas wherever possible. New poles will typically be located in the same or similar locations as existing poles, and our design has the poles farther away from existing underground pipelines. Four route options that primarily use the existing corridor are now being analyzed as part of the EIS process, including the preferred route that responded to community feedback in the first phase of the EIS process regarding pole heights and views.

“It’s our responsibility to keep the lights on for our customers, and we’re committed to limiting impact to the community as much as we can. Replacing existing power lines with upgraded lines solves the Eastside’s electrical problem,” said Dan Koch, PSE’s director of Electric Operations.

PSE is looking at several pole design options, which are shown in photo simulations.

Learn More and Stay Informed

PSE will continue to work with Eastside communities as the project and EIS process go forward.

In the meantime, you can review a map of the route options here.
9/21/2016
- PSE’s talking with property owners about project design
You know your property best. That’s why we’re meeting with property owners one-on-one to talk about site-specific designs for Energize Eastside. Over the next few months, our team will meet with property owners along the existing corridor to gather on-the-ground insights that will help us refine our project design and future permit materials.

During each informational meeting, we’ll share our current design for that specific property, including pole locations and how we plan to access those locations during construction. New poles will typically be in the same or similar locations as the existing poles. We’ll also talk about property-specific details the permitting process may not address. We’ll take the information learned from these conversations into consideration as we continue to design the project.

These are important conversations for both property owners and our project team, which is why we are reaching out now. If you live along the existing corridor, be on the lookout for a letter or door hanger inviting you to schedule a meeting with us.

View our Photo Simulations for conceptual photos of the upgraded transmission lines.
6/30/2016
- Public comment period reopened for Energize Eastside EIS Phase 2 Scoping
Comment period is from June 30 through August 1

The Energize Eastside project is undergoing environmental review, which includes preparation of a Washington State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The City of Bellevue is leading the EIS process in cooperation with Kirkland, Newcastle, Redmond and Renton.

The City of Bellevue has reopened the scoping comment period on the Phase 2 EIS to provide the public with the opportunity to submit written comments on two new alternatives identified by PSE. The new alternatives do not represent PSE’s preferred alignment, but are designed to bypass the boundaries of the East Bellevue Community Council.

See EnergizeEastsideEIS.org for more details on the location of the alternatives, including maps. Scoping comments must be submitted by August 1, 2016.

Please note: Comments or questions submitted to Puget Sound Energy will not be considered part of the EIS.
5/31/2016
- PSE Evaluates ‘Bypass’ Route Options for Energize Eastside
New Routes Designed to Limit Risk to Project, Keep It on Track

Puget Sound Energy has announced two new route options in Bellevue for the Energize Eastside project. The proposed routes were developed to bypass the boundaries of the East Bellevue Community Council (EBCC) to avoid risking a potential project delay. PSE submitted the routes as part of the public comment period for Phase 2 Scoping of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process. This submittal ensures these two new route options, along with PSE’s preferred route, will be studied in the EIS.

The EBCC is a local community council empowered by state law with the authority to approve and disapprove certain land-use actions in East Bellevue, including the Energize Eastside project.

Both routes use a combination of the existing corridor and new corridors to avoid the boundaries of the EBCC. The bypass routes wind through the Spring District, Bel-Red Corridor, Wilburton neighborhood, and along Lake Hills Connector before rejoining the existing corridor. View the route maps.

PSE prefers to use the existing transmission line corridor. Our preferred route, called Willow 2, reflects this value. However, it’s our responsibility to keep the lights on and we must measure and reduce potential permitting risks to the project in an effort to keep Energize Eastside on schedule. We look forward to working with EBCC and other coordinating cities so we can continue to keep the lights on for all Eastside communities.
Next steps for Energize Eastside

The project is currently undergoing environmental review, which includes preparation of a Washington State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) EIS.

The 45-day comment period for Phase 2 Scoping ends on May 31. Phase 2 includes a specific and detailed review of project-level alternatives, and will focus on project design and construction.

The EIS process is led by the City of Bellevue in cooperation with the cities of Kirkland, Newcastle, Redmond and Renton. More information can be found at EnergizeEastsideEIS.org.

PSE will continue to listen and learn as the project and EIS process continue.
4/26/2016
- City of Bellevue announces Energize Eastside EIS Phase 2 Scoping; PSE releases updated project route maps
With the City of Bellevue and coordinating jurisdictions announcing the start of Phase 2 Scoping on April 14, Energize Eastside moved into the next phase of the environmental review process. The 45-day public comment period for Phase 2 Scoping ends on Tuesday, May 31, 2016.

For information about public open houses, and to submit comments to be included as part of the EIS and the public record, check out EnergizeEastsideEIS.org. NOTE: Comments or questions submitted to Puget Sound Energy will not be considered part of the EIS.

It is important that we deliver clear and consistent project information so that our customers can provide informed comments through the environmental review process. As the Energize Eastside project enters this next stage, you may notice our project maps have been updated: segments which were previously referenced using letters are now represented by numbers and route names. These changes are consistent with how the routes are referenced in the EIS and how we’ll refer to them moving forward.

So, what are the changes we made to the maps? Specifically, the maps incorporate the following updates:
- Segment 1 runs from the Sammamish substation in Redmond to the Lakeside substation in Bellevue, north of Interstate 90. Segment 1 is the same for all route options. This Segment includes the former Segments A, C and E.
- Segment 2 runs from the Lakeside substation in Bellevue north of Interstate 90 to just south of Forest Drive SE in south Bellevue. Route options differ in Segment 2. This Segment includes the former Segments G2, I, J, K2, O, and P.
- Segment 3 runs from just south of Forest Drive SE in south Bellevue to Talbot Hill substation in Renton. Segment 3 is the same for all route options. This Segment includes the former Segments M and N.
3/25/2016
- PSE’s response to misinformation in the Lauckhart-Schiffman Load Flow Study
It is time to upgrade the electric system serving the Eastside

In recent weeks, you may have heard varying views about need for our Energize Eastside project. Specifically, the Lauckhart-Schiffman Load Flow Study, put together by a neighborhood group opposed to the project, has made a number of claims and assumptions that are simply inaccurate.

The Lauckhart-Schiffman Load Flow Study is flawed on several levels, including:
- The study erroneously interprets power flows to Canada
- The study fails to stress the electric system as required by federal standards
- The study underestimates the growth rate for the Eastside
- There is no local generation in Bellevue
- The study confuses planning standards with day-to-day operations
- The Lauckhart-Schiffman study ignores prior studies
- The study reaches irrational conclusions
The multiple inaccuracies in this study lead to an erroneous conclusion about the need for the project, which are described in detail here.

Electrical transmission system planning is a complex and rigorous exercise, performed by industry experts with the experience in and understanding of federally-mandated system planning requirements. The need for this project has been firmly established several times by multiple independent experts, as well as PSE. These studies have confirmed that a solution to provide reliable power for local Eastside customers must be implemented by the winter of 2017-18 to avoid risking power outages.

The Energize Eastside project will provide the necessary infrastructure to meet federally-mandated requirements without having to plan for rotating blackouts and without having a public discussion of the need to plan for blackouts. Combined with continued aggressive electric conservation, Energize Eastside will keep the lights on for homes and businesses in our Eastside communities for years to come.
3/18/2016
- PSE Announces Preferred Route for Energize Eastside
Route Responds to Community Feedback; Will Be Evaluated During Phase 2 of Environmental Analysis

PSE is responsible for keeping the lights on for all customers. We take this responsibility very seriously.

It’s been 50 years since the last major upgrade of the backbone of the Eastside’s electric grid. Growth studies project that demand for electricity will exceed the current system capacity as early as winter 2017-2018. In total, five independent studies have all confirmed the need to address this issue. Energize Eastside addresses the demand caused by this unprecedented growth by upgrading the existing system so Eastside communities will continue to receive safe and dependable power for the future.

Photo simulation comparing existing conditions to what the corridor would look like with Energize Eastside

We have listened

PSE has heard from nearly 2,000 people over the past two years through the Community Advisory Group process, open houses, consultations and many, many comments. We’ve been listening to this input.

We’ve learned that pole height, view impacts and safety are key concerns for residents along the corridor.

Through the Environmental Impact Statement process, we’ve continued to listen. We’ve also learned more about the existing transmission line corridor through fieldwork, and our engineers have been taking a hard look at route designs. The deadline for submitting public comments for the Phase 1 Draft EIS was March 14, and in that process, PSE identified our preferred route and route options to undergo further analysis during Phase 2 of the EIS process.

Our preferred route - Willow 2

Our preferred route, called Willow 2, primarily uses the existing corridor and a new segment in the Factoria area. We’re also studying other options in the Factoria area, specifically Willow and Oak – advisory group recommendations – and a new option, called Oak 2. All four of these routes solve the Eastside’s electrical problem and address community concerns.

It’s nearly impossible to have no impact. But we appreciate those who may be affected by our routing decisions and will continue to work with them and welcome their input.

PSE’s selection is based on four key factors:
- We are using the existing corridor as much as possible, replacing four poles with one or two poles. We are using the existing corridor as much as possible. In most instances, where there are currently four poles in the corridor, we will be removing them and replacing them with one pole, or at most two poles. Additionally, most of the new poles will be built approximately in the same place as the existing poles.
- Avoids new corridors and sensitive areas. We did our best to develop route options that avoid new corridors and environmental impacts whenever possible. We understand it’s nearly impossible to have no impact. We appreciate those who may be affected by our routing decisions and will continue to work with them and welcome their input.
- No condemnation of homes. Our preferred route, based on what we know today, does not condemn anybody’s homes anywhere.
- Safe and better than what we have now. Safety is our first priority. The project will be constructed safely according to strict federal standards. As described in the Phase 1 Draft EIS, new construction means new, longer-lasting equipment as well as fewer poles.
We will continue to listen and learn as the project and EIS process progresses.

Learn more about the proposed route options.

If you have any questions about PSE's preferred route and route options, contact us.

What’s next?

These routes will be analyzed as part of the EIS process being led by City of Bellevue. Learn about upcoming opportunities this spring to provide comment and read more about the City of Bellevue-led EIS process at EnergizeEastsideEIS.org.

The EIS process is moving into Phase 2, which will include a more specific and detailed review of alternatives based on the outcomes of Phase 1, and will focus on project design and construction.

Similar to the Phase 1 process, you will be able to provide comments during scoping and on the subsequent Phase 2 Draft EIS. The scoping period is expected to begin this spring. Please visit the City of Bellevue’s EIS website for updates on the environmental review process.

Comments or questions submitted to Puget Sound Energy will not be considered part of the EIS.
1/8/2016
- Preparing for the future

You can see it everywhere - from Renton to Redmond, cranes are up and traffic congestion is increasing. Projections by the Puget Sound Regional Council show the Eastside population will likely grow by another third and employment will grow by more than three-quarters over the next 25 years. It’s been 50 years since the last major upgrade to the backbone of the Eastside’s electric grid. It’s time to upgrade.

2015

11/17/2015
- Geotechnical fieldwork begins in the Factoria area
11/17/15 – PSE and our contractor, GeoEngineers, are conducting geotechnical investigations at a limited number of public locations, PSE rights of way and private properties in the Factoria area in November and December. PSE understands that the holidays are a busy time in the Factoria area and has taken steps to minimize effects of geotechnical fieldwork on holiday shoppers and travelers.

As the work progresses, PSE will notify nearby businesses when they might see crews.

To learn more about geotechnical fieldwork and to view an up-to-date fieldwork schedule and fieldwork video, visit the fieldwork webpage.
10/22/2015
- Energize Eastside FERC complaint dismissed
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has dismissed the complaint filed by three residents and two neighborhood opposition groups against Puget Sound Energy’s Energize Eastside project. The ruling reaffirms that PSE complied with federal rules and their transmission planning responsibilities in planning the project.

“Contrary to Complainants’ vague allegations that the Respondents have violated [Federal transmission planning regulations], the record before us shows that [PSE] and the other Respondents have complied with the applicable transmission planning requirements,” states FERC.

The Energize Eastside project – which will build a new electric substation and higher capacity transmission lines to serve homes and businesses on the Eastside – is essential to meet the growing electric needs of homes and businesses in Eastside neighborhoods. The line, which is the backbone of the existing local transmission system, had its last major upgrade in the 1960s.

FERC further states that the Energize Eastside project “was designed to address [PSE’s] projected inability to serve its own customers,” and confirmed that PSE “has demonstrated that its needs assessments identified a transmission capacity deficiency.”

In addition to PSE, the Bonneville Power Administration, Seattle City Light and ColumbiaGrid were also listed in the complaint. The claims against BPA, Seattle City Light and ColumbiaGrid were also dismissed.

Click here to view the full order dismissing the complaint.
9/29/2015
- Fieldwork update and video
PSE and our contractors continue to conduct fieldwork to evaluate the Oak and Willow segments. Crews are now beginning work on Segments G2, I and K2 in the Factoria area of Bellevue. Data collected from these efforts will inform the environmental review process, project design and future permitting efforts for the Energize Eastside project.

Visit the fieldwork page for the survey descriptions and latest fieldwork information, including the quarterly schedule and a new fieldwork video.

Thank you for your patience throughout the fieldwork process. We appreciate your cooperation!
8/18/2015
- Geotechnical fieldwork begins
PSE and our contractor, GeoEngineers, are conducting geotechnical investigations at a limited number of public locations, PSE rights of way and private properties throughout the project area.

Geotechnical investigations will identify soil types and subsurface conditions in and around the project area. The soil information gathered during this work will help inform the environmental review process being led by the City of Bellevue. It will also inform the design options for potential transmission line pole foundations and support structures.

As the work progresses, we are notifying nearby neighbors on when they might see crews. We anticipate completing geotechnical investigations by mid-September.

To learn more about fieldwork and to view an up-to-date fieldwork schedule by route segment, visit the fieldwork webpage.
8/6/2015
- Energize Eastside EIS updates
Last week, the Phase 1 Draft EIS Scoping Report was released, which you can view at EnergizeEastsideEIS.org. The report provides a summary of the Phase 1 EIS Public Scoping Meetings including meeting and notification materials, a summary of comments, and a description of the alternatives that will be studied in the Phase 1 Draft EIS.

Also posted to EnergizeEastsideEIS.org is a findings memo from the EIS team, authored by Stantec, the electrical engineering EIS sub-consultant. The memo explains the project, as well as discusses the purpose and need.

Both of these reports are listed under the Announcements section of the EnergizeEastsideEIS.org homepage.

For more information on the EIS, please visit EnergizeEastsideEIS.org.
7/15/2015
- PSE's response to Energize Eastside FERC complaint
On June 8, 2015, three individuals and two neighborhood groups – Coalition of Eastside Neighborhoods for Sensible Energy (CENSE) and Citizens for Sane Eastside Energy (CSEE) – filed a formal complaint with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) against Puget Sound Energy (PSE), the Bonneville Power Administration, Seattle City Light and ColumbiaGrid regarding the Energize Eastside project.

The complaint is based upon several inaccurate claims that lead to incorrect conclusions about the need for and ultimate use of the Energize Eastside project. Largely, the complainants erroneously assert the Energize Eastside project primarily benefits the larger, regional transmission system. In fact, the Energize Eastside project is needed to solve local delivery capacity issues on the Eastside caused by recent and continued growth in the area, a conclusion documented in several PSE studies over recent years and confirmed in the independent study commissioned by the City of Bellevue in the last few months. The backbone of the existing local transmission system, which had its last major upgrade in the 1960s, will soon not be able to accommodate the increased demand for power without additional infrastructure investments. That is the problem that the Energize Eastside project is intended to solve, not some undefined larger regional problem.

Together with ColumbiaGrid, PSE filed a motion to dismiss and answer the complaint on June 29. Additionally, Avista filed a motion to intervene in the docket in support of PSE’s and ColumbiaGrid’s motion. Seattle City Light and BPA also filed in opposition to the complaint.

PSE firmly believes the complaint should be dismissed through the normal FERC process. In the meantime, PSE is moving forward with the Energize Eastside project. To ensure reliable power for our local Eastside customers, the project needs to be completed in the 2017-2018 timeframe.
7/7/2015
- Fieldwork update
Since January 2015, Puget Sound Energy (PSE) and our contractors have been conducting fieldwork activities along the two transmission line routes recommended for further evaluation by the Community Advisory Group (Oak and Willow). Data collected from fieldwork will inform the current environmental review process, as well as project design and future permit applications for the project.

To date, our crews have surveyed more than 400 parcels in 14 miles of the project area, completing in-depth wetland delineations, land surveys, and tree inventories.

Thank you to all the property owners and tenants who have provided access to fieldwork crews. We appreciate your patience and cooperation, which has allowed us to complete this work as quickly and efficiently as possible!

What’s next for fieldwork?

This summer, we’ll wrap up the first phase of land survey, wetland delineation, and tree inventory fieldwork on Segments J and N.

We’ll also begin geotechnical investigations. These studies will occur at limited locations, and we will coordinate with individual property owners and tenants in advance of beginning this work.

To learn more about these surveys and to view an up-to-date fieldwork schedule by route segment, visit the fieldwork webpage.
6/16/2015
- New video provides overview of PSE's latest load forecast
The load forecast is a projection of how much power PSE's customers will need in future years. This forecast allows PSE to plan upgrades to its system to ensure that current and future customers continue to have reliable power. The load forecast was most recently conducted in 2014 and completed earlier this year.

Visit the Videos page to watch this new video, as well as explore other informative videos about the Energize Eastside project.
6/5/2015
- Fieldwork update
PSE and our contractors are continuing to conduct fieldwork as part of ongoing efforts to further evaluate the Oak and Willow routes. Data gathered will inform the environmental review process, project design and future permitting efforts for the Energize Eastside project.

Fieldwork crews have conducted surveys on segments A, C, and M and are now beginning work on Segment E. Visit the fieldwork page for the survey descriptions and latest fieldwork information, including the quarterly schedule.
4/30/2015
- Energize Eastside EIS Public Scoping Period from April 30 through June 15
The Energize Eastside project is undergoing environmental review, which includes preparation of a Washington State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The EIS process will be led by the City of Bellevue in cooperation with Kirkland, Newcastle, Redmond and Renton. A scoping period for Phase 1 of the EIS is currently open from April 30, 2015 through June 15, 2015.

For more information on the EIS and to submit comments, please visit EnergizeEastsideEIS.org.

Please note: Comments or questions submitted to Puget Sound Energy will not be considered part of the EIS.

For background information about the Energize Eastside project, please refer to the project's Frequently Asked Questions.
3/24/2015
- Fieldwork update
PSE and our contractors recently began conducting wetland delineation surveys and tree inventories on segments A, C and M to further evaluate the Oak and Willow routes. This fieldwork is in addition to ongoing land surveys that began earlier this year. Data gathered from fieldwork will inform the environmental review process, project design and future permitting efforts for the Energize Eastside project.

Visit the fieldwork page for the survey descriptions and latest fieldwork information, including the quarterly schedule.
3/9/2015
- Energize Eastside moving into the environmental review stage
PSE work in 2015

Following a year-long public route discussion process, PSE is moving forward with additional analysis and fieldwork of the Lakeside substation site and the two transmission line routes recommended by the Community Advisory Group.

Environmental review process in 2015

The Energize Eastside project is now moving into the environmental review stage. The environmental review process will be led by the City of Bellevue in cooperation with Kirkland, Newcastle, Redmond and Renton, and will include preparation of a Washington State Environmental Policy Act Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

For more information on the EIS and opportunities for public comment, visit EnergizeEastsideEIS.org.
1/22/2015
- Fieldwork begins
Following a year-long public route discussion process, PSE is now collecting field information to inform the environmental review process, project design and future permit applications for the Energize Eastside project. PSE and our contractors are beginning fieldwork on Segment A, and will conduct surveys within the project area throughout 2015.

Data gathered from fieldwork will help us further evaluate the proposed segments on the Oak and Willow routes, though PSE may study additional segments in the future. Fieldwork will be conducted on properties along PSE’s existing corridor with existing utility easements and in public rights of way. Visit the interactive map for more information on the location of route segments.

We are committed to keeping property owners, tenants and neighbors informed and will provide quarterly fieldwork updates on activities to expect in their area. We will also continue to keep the community informed of project progress.

Check out the new fieldwork page for the latest information on fieldwork activities, including the anticipated survey schedule.
1/14/2015
- Community Advisory Group Final Report
The Final Report summarizing the Community Advisory Group’s process and final recommendation is now available.

The purpose of the Community Advisory Group was to evaluate the potential route options determined by PSE and independent experts, as well as to help PSE better understand community values and concerns. At their final meeting on Dec. 10, 2014, the Community Advisory Group selected routes Oak and Willow as their final route recommendation for PSE’s consideration.

Twenty-two advisory group members and four residential association alternates participated in the recommendation discussion. Twenty, including those who attended the meeting and six members who later provided feedback, supported the final recommendation as follows:
- Ten expressed preference for the Oak route
- Five expressed preference for the Willow route
- Five did not express a preference
A Minority Report signed by advisory group members and residential association alternates who dissented from the recommendation is included as an appendix in the Final Report.

What's next for the Energize Eastside project?

Check out the most recent Energize Eastside newsletter for information on PSE’s next steps in 2015 and how to stay involved.

2014

12/11/2014
- Community Advisory Group selected routes Oak and Willow as their final route recommendation
On Dec. 10, the Energize Eastside Community Advisory Group selected routes Oak and Willow as their final route recommendation for PSE’s consideration. Of the 20 advisory group members and residential association alternates present, 17 supported the final recommendation. Of those 17, eight expressed preference for the Oak route and five expressed preference for the Willow route, while four supported either route. Three advisory group members dissented from the recommendation and supported none of the routes. Check out a graphic or see the interactive map for the location of the final route recommendation.

The final recommendation was based on the advisory group’s work over the last year, including discussion of community feedback collected throughout 2014.

Meeting materials shared at the Dec. 10 meeting are now available on the Energize Eastside project website. Stay tuned for the January release of the Community Advisory Group Final Report summarizing the advisory group’s work over the last twelve months and their final recommendation.

What's next for the Energize Eastside project?
- Over the next few months, PSE will:
- Take the Community Advisory Group’s recommendation under consideration
- Conduct property line surveys on segments that are not part of PSE’s existing corridor
- Analyze all that we have learned the past year, complete our due diligence and make an announcement about routing
- Ask for community input on project design
- Work with the City of Bellevue and other affected jurisdictions and agencies on the project’s Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process
11/22/2014
- Upcoming Community Advisory Group Meeting #6 on Dec. 10
Thank you to everyone who was able to attend the open houses either online or in person, and share feedback on the Community Advisory Group’s preliminary route recommendation. At their final meeting on Dec. 10, the Community Advisory Group will take community feedback into account before finalizing their route recommendation for PSE’s consideration.

You're welcome to attend and observe the advisory group at their meeting.

Community Advisory Group Meeting #6
Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2014
6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Red Lion Hotel Bellevue (Lake Washington Ballroom)
1121 Main St, Bellevue
11/3/2014
- Upcoming open houses on Nov. 12, 13, and online until Nov. 21
You’re invited to upcoming open houses to share your feedback on the preliminary route recommendation for the Energize Eastside project.

After months of evaluation, the project’s Community Advisory Group has announced a preliminary route recommendation for public feedback. Their recommendation includes four of 18 potential routes Puget Sound Energy identified for the new transmission lines. Your feedback will help the advisory group finalize their recommendation to PSE later this year. PSE expects to select a route by early 2015.

How you can participate

Visit us in person

Learn about the project, share your feedback and meet project staff at an open house:

Wednesday, Nov. 12 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Renton Technical College

Building I, Robert C Roberts Campus Center Cafeteria, 3000 NE 4th St., Renton

Thursday, Nov. 13 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Redmond Marriott Town Center

Grand Ballroom, 7401 164th Ave. NE, Redmond

Free parking is available at the Redmond Town Center across the street.

Materials will be the same at each open house. There will not be a formal presentation or Q&A session, so please feel free to arrive anytime during the open houses.

Visit us online

Open house materials and a feedback form are online until Nov. 21. Go to the online open house to access materials and complete the feedback form.

We’ll share the same information online and at both meetings. There will not be a formal presentation or Q&A session, so please feel free to arrive anytime during the open houses. Please provide your feedback by Nov. 21.
10/10/2014
- The Community Advisory Group determines preliminary route recommendation
On Oct. 8, the Energize Eastside Community Advisory Group selected routes Ash, Oak, Redwood and Willow as their preliminary route recommendation. The recommendation was based in part on information provided by PSE, community feedback, and the results of a Multi-Objective Decision Analysis completed by 19 out of 24 advisory group members. Of the 18 advisory group members present on Oct. 8, 15 supported the recommendation; two abstained and one had a dissenting opinion to include only three routes. Check out a graphic or see the interactive map for the location of the recommended routes and others that were evaluated.

In order to conduct the MODA evaluation, the advisory group met on Oct. 1 to review community feedback and survey results gathered over the summer. They considered community input in developing the list of route options and evaluation factor weightings to be used in the evaluation. The advisory group has met regularly with PSE since January 2014.

Stay tuned for future opportunities to weigh in on the Community Advisory Group’s preliminary route recommendation. You’ll be able to share feedback at open houses on Nov. 12 and 13 and via an online open house launching in early November on the Energize Eastside website. At their final meeting in December, the advisory group will consider the community’s feedback again before finalizing their recommendation for PSE to consider.

Presentations and materials shared at the Oct. 1 and Oct. 8 meetings are now available on the meeting materials page of the Energize Eastside project website.
10/6/2014
- Spring and summer 2014 outreach recap
The Energize Eastside team was out and about in the community throughout this past spring and summer at festivals and community events. We enjoyed the opportunity to meet Eastside residents, while sharing the latest information and answering questions about the Energize Eastside project.

In total, project team staff met approximately 1,200 community members at ten events! For more information, see the 2014 spring-summer community events outreach summary.

We hope you continue to stay involved. Join us at our upcoming meetings:
- Community Advisory Group Meeting #5b on Oct. 8
- Open Houses on Nov. 12 and 13 (the same information will be shared at both events)
- Community Advisory Group Meeting #6 on Dec. 10
9/18/2014
- Upcoming Community Advisory Group Meetings #5a and #5b on Oct. 1 and Oct. 8
Thank you to everyone who was able to attend the open houses either online or in person, and share feedback on proposed route options. At their October meetings, a Community Advisory Group will review the survey results and other community feedback, then develop a recommendation to PSE on which route or routes the new transmission lines should follow.

You're welcome to attend and observe the advisory group at their next two meetings on Oct. 1 and Oct. 8. The group's recommendation will also be shared with the community for public review in Novermber.

Community Advisory Group Meeting #5a
Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2014
6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Red Lion Hotel Bellevue (Lake Washington Ballroom)
1121 Main St, Bellevue

Community Advisory Group Meeting #5b
Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2014
6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Old Redmond Schoolhouse Community Center (Auditorium)
16600 NE 80th St, Redmond
9/12/2014
- Take the survey by Sept. 17!
There are only a few more days to share your feedback on proposed route options for Energize Eastside – a project of Puget Sound Energy (PSE) to build a new electric substation and higher capacity transmission lines to serve homes and businesses on the Eastside.

Visit our online open house for more details about the Energize Eastside project, how route options were developed, other project information, and take the survey, but hurry! The online open house and survey will close on Sept. 17. The online materials are the same materials we shared at in-person open houses in Renton and Bellevue on Sept. 10 and 11. Thank you to everyone who was able to attend the open houses either online or in person.
8/27/2014
- You're invited to upcoming open houses
You’re invited to upcoming open houses for Energize Eastside. PSE identified 18 potential routes for the new transmission lines. Earlier this summer, the project’s Community Advisory Group recommended 11 of those routes for further evaluation, and we want to hear from you! Your feedback will help the advisory group make a recommendation to PSE later this year.

How you can participate
Visit us in person!
Learn about the project, share your feedback and meet project staff at an open house:

Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2014 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Renton Pavilion Event Center
233 Burnett Ave S, Renton

Thursday, Sept. 11, 2014 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Bellevue Hilton
Grand Ballroom
300 112th AVE SE, Bellevue

Materials will be the same at each open house. There will not be a formal presentation or Q&A session, so please feel free to arrive anytime during the open houses. Russian and Spanish translators will be available.

Visit us online!
Open house materials and a feedback survey are at our Online Open House through Sept. 17.

We’ll share the same information online and at both meetings. Share your feedback by Sept. 17!
8/5/2014
- Interactive map updates allow you to explore recommended route options
Check out the updated Energize Eastside interactive map, now featuring the 11 route options recommended for further evaluation by the Community Advisory Group. Use the checkboxes to compare different route options and explore photo simulations along routes.

The seven route options that were not recommended for further evaluation by the Community Advisory Group can be found on the Route Options Maps page. To view all route options, please refer to the Overview Map.
7/17/2014
- Summer plans for Energize Eastside
The Community Advisory Group meeting on July 9 marked the beginning of a summer recess for the advisory group until meetings resume in the fall. We’ve enjoyed meeting some of you at festivals around the Eastside and we look forward to being out and about in the community throughout the rest of summer.

Be sure to stop by and chat with a project team member for additional Energize Eastside project information, answers to your questions, and opportunities to provide additional feedback. This summer, find us at:
- Renton River Days on July 25, 26, and 27
- Newcastle Days on September 6
Join us at our upcoming project meetings later this year:
- Open Houses on September 10 and 11 (the same information will be shared at both events)
- Community Advisory Group Meeting on October 1
7/14/2014
- The Community Advisory Group identifies 11 out of 18 route options for further evaluation
The Community Advisory Group met at Renton Technical College on July 9. Informed by quantitative and qualitative information, feedback from the community, photo simulations, results from a blind evaluation of route options, and pre-meeting recommendations from eight advisory group members for routes to leave off for further consideration, 21 advisory group members agreed to carry forward 11 of the 18 route options for further evaluation in their first round of narrowing. The advisory group also finalized community values-based evaluation factors to objectively evaluate the narrowed route options in a Multi-Objective Decision Analysis (MODA) process they will conduct later this year. A small minority of members were in favor of including additional evaluation factors (property values and construction impacts) – the full group did not adopt those factors.

The meeting presentation and materials are on available on the meeting materials page.

Stay tuned for future opportunities to provide feedback on route options and evaluations factors. At their next meeting in October, the advisory group will consider community feedback on the route options, finalize the weighting of evaluation factors, and further evaluate the route options.
6/26/2014
- Additional info on route options, new photo simulations; Q and A session on July 7
The Community Advisory Group convened at the Hilton Bellevue Hotel last night for Community Advisory Group Meeting #4a. At the meeting, PSE presented new information on each of the 18 route options including cost, constructability, permitability, maintainability, longevity, as well as additional photo simulations developed since the Sub-Area Workshop #2 series. Photo simulations are organized by north, central, and south sub-areas.

Visit the meeting materials page to view all materials from Community Advisory Group Meeting #4a, and check out our project calendar for information on other upcoming project meetings, including:
- A Q&A Session on July 7 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Redmond Marriot Town Center (Salons 1 and 2), 7401 164th Ave NE, Redmond
- Community Advisory Group Meeting #4b on July 9 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Renton Technical College (Cafeteria in Building I), 3000 NE Fourth St., Renton
6/9/2014
- Next Community Advisory Group meeting - June 25 in Bellevue
At the last Community Advisory Group meeting, committee members reviewed and discussed feedback from the sub-area work, discussed evaluation factors using input from the community, and identified additional information needed from PSE as they narrow route options. At their next meeting on Wednesday, June 25, the Community Advisory Group will review additional information and discuss the pros and cons of all potential route options. You are invited to observe the meeting from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Hilton Bellevue Hotel, Salon A and B, 300 112th Ave SE, Bellevue.

Visit the meeting materials page to see materials from previous workshops and meetings. Check out our project calendar for information on other upcoming project meetings.
5/21/2014
- Next Community Advisory Group meeting - June 4 in Redmond

Over the last few months, we’ve held a series of Sub-Area Workshops to gather community input on the potential route segments. Three Sub-Area Committees met in the first half of May to review the information gathered in the workshops and develop findings to share with the Community Advisory Group.

At their next meeting on Wednesday, June 4, the Community Advisory Group will consider feedback from the sub-area work, determine evaluation factors using input from the community, and identify additional information needed from PSE as they narrow route options to recommended route(s). You are invited to attend and observe the meeting from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Old Redmond Schoolhouse Community Center, 16600 NE 80th St, Redmond.

Visit the meeting materials page to see materials from previous workshops and Sub-Area Committee meetings. Check out our project calendar for information on other upcoming project meetings.
4/21/2014
- Reminder: public events this week
We hope you can join us at Energize Eastside public events this week:
- Monday, April 21: Question and Answer session at Renton Technical College
- Wednesday, April 23: Central Sub-Area Workshop #2 at Bellevue Hilton Hotel
- Thursday, April 24: South Sub-Area Workshop #2 at Renton Techincal College
Full meeting details are available on the project calendar. You can also view materials from the April 16 North Sub-Area Workshop #2 on our Meeting Materials page.
4/9/2014
- Questions about PSE's plans on the Eastside?
You're invited to a community question and answer session for the Energize Eastside project. You’ll be able to directly ask or write down your question to share with a panel that includes a representative from PSE and national experts.

Time and location details:

Energize Eastside Q&A Session
6-9 p.m., April 21, 2014
Cafeteria, Building I, Renton Technical College
3000 NE Fourth St., Renton WA
3/31/2014
- Seattle Times: Census data shows King County booming
From the Seattle Times:

According to estimates released on Thursday by the U.S. Census Bureau, King County enjoyed remarkable population growth for the year ending July 1, 2013, ranking among the top four large counties in the nation for both the rate at which it added new residents and for the overall increase in population.
3/21/2014
- Sub-Area Committee Workshops underway!
The first Sub-Area Committee Workshop took place on Wednesday, March 19 in Redmond. Check out materials from that workshop. The first Central workshop is in Bellevue on Wednesday, March 26 and the first South workshop is in Renton on Thursday, March 27. View more time and location details on the project calendar.
3/11/2014
- March 11 - Webinar on undergrounding and EMF
March 12 update: Video and supplemental materials from the webinar are now online.

The Energize Eastside project team has heard many questions from community members about underground transmission line construction and electromagnetic fields (EMF). To help answer these questions, PSE is hosting a webinar from 3 to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 11. Please join us to learn more about these topics!

During this online session, you'll hear from experts about how underground transmission lines are built, environmental and neighborhood impacts that can result from underground transmission line construction, and the potential costs to underground transmission lines in local Eastside communities. You'll also be able to learn about EMF – what they are, their potential health effects, and details about EMF related to underground transmission lines.

Interested in signing up? Head to GoToMeeting to register and download the plug-in for your browser now so you're ready to go next Tuesday. Can't make the 3 p.m. meeting time? No worries – we'll post the video to our website shortly after the presentation.
2/28/2014
- Project information reports posted
Visit our Documents page to read in-depth project studies and learn when additional studies are anticipated. Topics include explaining the need for the project, potential solution options, an analysis of how PSE identified the project area and narrowed route segments, and an analysis of how to solve the project need without building a new transmission line.
2/27/2014
- March to May: Sub-Area Committee Workshops
PSE is hosting a series of upcoming Sub-Area Committee workshops focused on specific geographic areas (North – Kirkland, Redmond and North Bellevue; Central – Bellevue; South – Newcastle and Renton). At these meetings you can learn more about the Energize Eastside project, chat with your neighbors and project staff, and provide feedback about the potential route segments.

Workshop overview
- Workshop #1 – The Sub-Area Committee and members of the public can learn about the project, examine route segments and identify factors to evaluate the segments
- Workshop #2 – The Sub-Area Committee and members of the public can score each segment based on factors developed in Workshop #1
- Sub-Area Committee Meeting – Sub-Area Committee members will review outcomes from the workshops and develop findings to share with the Community Advisory Group. Members of the public are welcome to attend and observe.
Each of these three meetings will occur in each geographic area. Visit our project calendar page for date, time and location details.
2/26/2014
- Energize Eastside project survey launched
Puget Sound Energy invites you to complete the first Energize Eastside project survey. The purpose of this survey is for you to provide feedback on potential route segments so that community-based knowledge and values are reflected in the route selection process.

The information collected will be shared with the project’s Community Advisory Group and Sub-Area Committees during a series of workshops taking place March through May. Specifically, the survey results will be used by the Sub-Area Committees at the second round of workshops starting in April to develop route segment combination recommendations that will be submitted to the Community Advisory Group for further consideration. The survey will close on March 28, after the first round of workshops.

For more information on those meetings, visit the project calendar.
2/18/2014
- Coming soon: Sub-Area Committee Workshops
You’re invited to participate in a series of upcoming Sub-Area Committee workshops focused on a specific geographic area (North – Kirkland, Redmond and North Bellevue; Central – Bellevue; South – Newcastle and Renton). At these meetings you can learn more about the Energize Eastside project, chat with your neighbors and project staff, and provide feedback about the potential route segments.

Workshop overview
- Workshop #1 – The Sub-Area Committee and members of the public can learn about the project, examine route segments and identify factors to evaluate the segments
- Workshop #2 – The Sub-Area Committee and members of the public can score each segment based on factors developed in Workshop #1
- Sub-Area Committee Meeting – Sub-Area Committee members will review outcomes from the workshops and develop findings to share with the Community Advisory Group. Members of the public are welcome to attend and observ.
Each of these three meetings will occur in each geographic area. Visit our project calendar page for date, time and location details.
1/31/2014
- Next Community Advisory Group meeting - Feb. 12
You’re invited to observe the next meeting of the Community Advisory Group on February 12 in Renton. At this meeting, the advisory group will:
- Learn about the factors involved in developing the route segments.
- Consider a community values-based evaluation process to allow the advisory group to make a recommendation on the route.
- Listen to comments from the public.
The meeting will take place Wednesday, February 12 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Rainier Hotel and Conference Center (formerly the Renton Holiday Inn). The address is 1 South Grady Way, Renton, WA.

Learn more about the Community Advisory Group and be sure to check the project calendar for details on upcoming events.
1/31/2014
- Open House Materials Available
Thanks for joining us at this week's open houses! You can view the open house materials on the meeting materials page.
1/16/2014
- Join us for open houses on Jan. 29 and 30
You’re invited to the first project open houses on January 29 in Redmond and January 30 in Renton to:
- Review project materials about growth on the Eastside, how it’s straining the existing system, and why conservation alone isn’t enough to meet this challenge.
- Learn why we need to act now, and how the Energize Eastside project will power the area’s growth into the future.
- Speak with project staff and get your questions answered.
- Learn about the Community Advisory Group process that begins on January 22.
- Understand the different ways you can get involved in the public routing discussion.
The same content will be shared at both open houses. No presentation is scheduled for this meeting and all materials will be posted online. These meetings will take place:

Wednesday, January 29, 2014 from 6-8 p.m.

Old Redmond Schoolhouse Community Center

16600 N.E. 80th St.

Redmond, WA 98073

Thursday, January 30, 2014 from 6-8 p.m.

Renton Pavilion Event Center

233 Burnett Ave. S.

Renton, WA 98057
1/8/2014
- First Community Advisory Group Meeting
You're invited to observe the first Community Advisory Group meeting for the Energize Eastside project, scheduled for January 22, 2014. At this meeting, Puget Sound Energy and the advisory group will:
- Learn more about the Energize Eastside project, the electric system and project need
- Review the Community Advisory Group purpose, goals and ground rules
- Listen to comments from the public
The meeting will take place Wednesday, January 22 from 5:30-8:00 p.m. at the Red Lion Hotel in Bellevue (11211 Main Street).

Learn more about the Community Advisory Group and be sure to check the project calendar for details on upcoming events.

2013

12/4/2013
- Puget Sound Energy announces the Energize Eastside project

In December 2013, Puget Sound Energy (PSE) announced the Energize Eastside project. The Energize Eastside project will bring new higher capacity electric transmission lines to the Eastside. It takes years to plan, permit and construct new electric transmission lines, which is why we are getting started now. During 2014, PSE will engage our community in a conversation to identify a solution that works best for the Eastside.

To learn more about Energize Eastside, read our project press release, check out our project newsletter or watch our project overview presentation.

- January 2024 update: south half complete, construction starting in north

PSE made major progress on the Energize Eastside project in 2023.

- May 2023 Update: Construction starting in Newcastle

Work is starting on the last portion of the south half of the transmission line in Newcastle

- Major progress made on Energize Eastside this year

- City of Newcastle approves PSE’s Energize Eastside permit

- May 2022 Update: Energize Eastside transmission line construction progresses, wrapping up in Renton and starting in south Bellevue.

Transmission line construction moving forward

Construction continues for the Richards Creek substation

- August 2021 Update: Energize Eastside transmission line construction begins and north half permitting continues

- Fall 2020 Update: Energize Eastside substation construction begins and permitting moves ahead

- Project Update: Bellevue City Council vote advances Energize Eastside

Learn more

- City of Bellevue approves PSE’s Energize Eastside permit

- Bellevue staff recommends approval of Energize Eastside’s permits

- Progress continues on Energize Eastside

Building on our commitment to deliver safe, dependable electricity

- Is battery storage a solution for the Eastside’s energy needs?

- Summer 2018 Update

Rising temperatures, increased energy needs

Permitting process continues

Making plans for trees

- Spring 2018 Project Update

2018 is a big year for upgrading the Eastside's electric grid

Thank you to our customers

For more information

About Energize Eastside

- Cities issue Final EIS; Energize Eastside moves another step closer to construction

Permitting review underway, construction to follow

Learn more

- PSE submits last major permit application for south half

Let’s talk – meet with us to discuss tree replacement planning for Energize Eastside

Learn more

- Permitting process moves ahead for Energize Eastside

Questions about your property? Meet with PSE

Learn more

- PSE submits permit application for Energize Eastside through south Bellevue

- Fieldwork continues; Archaeological resources surveys begin

- PSE has selected the existing corridor as the final route for Energize Eastside

After nearly four years of study and extensive dialogue with Eastside communities, PSE has selected the existing corridor “Willow 1” route as the final route to permit for Energize Eastside.

Click here to learn more about the final route.

We’re moving forward with permitting to keep the lights on

PSE will replace the poles in the existing corridor

- Public comment period extended for Energize Eastside Phase 2 Draft EIS

Comment period now ends July 6

Submit your comments on the EIS

About the EIS

- Utility mapping surveys begin

- Public comment period open for Energize Eastside Phase 2 Draft EIS

Comment period is from May 8 through June 21

Submit your comments on the EIS

About the EIS

- Independent experts confirm a solution is needed

- Spring 2017 project update

Where we stand today

Get involved!

Upcoming fieldwork surveys

We're not all old enough to remember ...

Electricity is not just a convenience ...

Is demand for energy really growing?

Four questions for the Energize Eastside project team

- Energize Eastside fieldwork continues

- Architectural surveying going on through February

- Study: Energize Eastside can be safely colocated with pipelines

Next steps for Energize Eastside

- Energize Eastside Upgrades Existing Power Lines

Overview: Keeping the Lights on for Years to Come

Limiting Impact on Neighborhoods and the Environment

Learn More and Stay Informed

- PSE’s talking with property owners about project design

- Public comment period reopened for Energize Eastside EIS Phase 2 Scoping

Comment period is from June 30 through August 1

- PSE Evaluates ‘Bypass’ Route Options for Energize Eastside

New Routes Designed to Limit Risk to Project, Keep It on Track

- City of Bellevue announces Energize Eastside EIS Phase 2 Scoping; PSE releases updated project route maps

- PSE’s response to misinformation in the Lauckhart-Schiffman Load Flow Study

- PSE Announces Preferred Route for Energize Eastside

- Preparing for the future

- Geotechnical fieldwork begins in the Factoria area

- Energize Eastside FERC complaint dismissed