R ESPECTING T HE E NVIRONMENT SUSTAINABILITY IN TRANSMISSION We develop innovative technology and conduct research to promote sustainability in transmission line right-of-way areas. The simple, elegant, low-profile design of AEP Transmission’s BOLD towers blends more into the landscape than ‘traditional’ transmission towers. AEP Transmission’s engineers invented BOLD Transmission, tubular steel towers which also have higher capacity and more efficient operations. Balancing Transmission Line Maintenance and the Environment Change to: AEP’s forestry department manages power line right-of-ways so vegetation can’t grow into lines and cause outages. We follow federal standards designed to protect the system, minimize outages and reduce adverse environmental impacts. We focus on performing maintenance work safely and economically, while fostering positive relationships with landowners and the public before, during and after construction. Environmental Stewardship in Transmission Construction Respecting the environment is a priority when siting, constructing, and maintaining transmission lines and substations. We use industry best practices to protect wetlands, waterways, habitats, and endangered species. AEP Transmission’s outreach team meets with landowners and community stakeholders about planned projects, and also holds public open houses. After project approval and before construction begins, vegetation and large trees must be trimmed or removed from transmission right-of-way areas to ensure safety and reliability. Our foresters collaborate with construction managers to develop a clearing plan. Environmental impacts, mitigations, and all applicable environmental approvals are required before site clearing begins. SITE RESTORATION AFTER CONSTRUCTION We collaborate with other organizations to promote sustainability. Our research includes substituting native plant seeds for ”traditional” grass seeds to restore right-of-way areas after construction. The deeper root systems of native plants help prevent invasive plants from becoming established in right-of-way areas. This should drastically reduce vegetation that could adversely impact reliability, while reducing forestry maintenance. Dawes Arboretum Right-of-Way Project We are selecting native plant seed mixes which are customized for specific geographical areas and support pollinators and other wildlife. Across our footprint, transmission project planning focuses on reducing impacts on insects or wildlife, including endangered species. INCORPORATING CLEAN ENERGY INTO OUR GRID In line with our mission, we continue to seek innovative technologies to incorporate renewable energy into our portions of the power grid. B2B & SUPPLIERS RECREATION ENVIRONMENT SAFETY & HEALTH Use of this site constitutes acceptance of the AEP Terms and Conditions. © 1996-2021 American Electric Power Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. REQUIRED INTERNET POSTINGS | SITEMAP | DO NOT SELL MY PERSONAL INFO | PRIVACY POLICY