Duke Energy to invest $37 million in N.C. power-transmission line, substation

Duke Energy Progress said on Tuesday that it plans to build a 14-mile transmission line between Grants Creek and Jacksonville, North Carolina.

The company is investing $37 million on projects that will enhance the reliability of electricity in the area. Along with the transmission line, the utility also will construct a substation in Grants Creek, near Old 30 Road.

The utility will hold an open house on 4-7 p.m. EDT on Thursday at the Jacksonville Conference Center.

"Our goal is to minimize impacts to homes and businesses, the environment and cultural resources as we work to determine the final route," Billy Harrell , project manager for the planned transmission line and substation, said. "We also want to address the questions and concerns of potentially affected property owners and are committed to communicating with the public throughout the process."

Information on the project will be available on the company's website beginning on Thursday.

Duke Energy Progress generates approximately 12,000 megawatts of electrical capacity through nuclear, coal-fired, natural gas and hydroelectric systems. The company serves approximately 1.5 million customers in North Carolina and South Carolina.

"We must invest in the electric system to ensure that it continues to meet the needs of this growing region," Harrell said.