Grain Belt Express Project Clears Fed Regulatory Hurdle

A proposed high-voltage power line through the region has federal approval, but it still must get the OK from regulators in Missouri and Illinois.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has given the green light to the controversial Grain Belt Express Clean Line. Approval means the Houston-based company can begin talks with potential customers.

The line would transmit electricity generated by wind power in Kansas to Indiana, where it would then be sent to the East Coast. Randolph, Monroe and Ralls counties in Northeast Missouri and Pike County in West-Central Illinois are included on the 750-mile route.

The Missouri Public Service Commission has not scheduled a vote on the proposal, but has asked its staff to make a recommendation by May 30th.