Manson Capacity Alternative Solutions

What's Happening Now?

In May 2025, Chelan PUD began community outreach to introduce a proposal to improve electric system reliability in Manson. A component of that project includes constructing a new transmission line connecting to the existing Manson substation. 

Chelan PUD's engineering team has identified a potential route for this transmission line and will begin contacting property owners to discuss property rights, easements, and compensation.

More information about the proposed improvements in Manson can be found below.

Provide your feedback here or email us at [email protected]

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Milestones

• April 2025: Staff presented the Manson Capacity Improvements project to Chelan PUD's Board of Commissioners
• May 2025: Postcards mailed to Manson customers to introduce the project webpage
• August 2025: Staff presented information to the Manson Community Council
• September 2025: Informational Open House at Manson Fire Hall
• November 2025: Informational Open House at Manson High School
• November 2025: Staff presents and recommends Chelan PUD Commissioners purchase property on Manson Blvd. for potential future utility use
• January 2026: Chelan PUD purchases Manson Blvd. property
• May 2026: Staff presents and recommends Chelan PUD Commissioners purchase a second property on Manson Blvd. for potential future utility use

Manson Transmission Loop: Phase 1

1: Construct a new transmission line (power lines that bring higher-voltage electricity into the substation). The existing transmission line along Roses Avenue is the only line bringing electricity into the substation. The PUD is exploring options to bring an additional transmission line into the Manson Substation, creating a loop to improve reliability and increase resiliency of the system.  

2: Upgrade the existing Manson Substation and add an additional transformer to increase capacity. The existing substation is nearing capacity.
  

Manson Transmission Loop:  Anticipated Timeline

       
          What is the PUD doing?

How are we engaging you?

             2025 - 2027

• Identify potential transmission routes
• Acquire property and land rights
  

INVOLVE:
We will gather and consider feedback in decision making.

            2027 - 2030

• Design the substation rebuild and power lines
• Pursue appropriate permitting
• Rebuild the Manson substation and associated power lines
• New infrastructure serving customers

CONSULT:
We will listen to and acknowledge concerns during the design process.

INFORM:
We will keep the public informed during the construction process.

Long-Term Solutions Being Explored: Phase 2 (2027 - 2037)

3: Upgrade existing distribution lines, adding additional distribution and transmission wires where appropriate. As part of finding a path for a larger transmission loop (see more below) to serve the greater Manson Area into the future, the PUD is seeking to utilize the existing electrical system.   

4: Acquire property for a future substation. We are planning for additional electrical capacity needs in this area in the future. The PUD will explore opportunities to acquire property for a future substation near this load center and in close proximity to both transmission and distribution lines.

5: Pursue construction of a transmission line loop around the greater Manson Area. A transmission loop will improve reliability and increase resiliency of the electrical system. This transmission line will also serve future substations.