Cowpen

The TNMP - Silverleaf and Cowpen project is a critical infrastructure upgrade that will enable more customers in the West Texas region to interconnect to the power grid at higher capacities. Currently, many TNMP customers in this area face limitations due to transmission upgrade requirements, preventing full interconnection or requiring them to connect at reduced capacity.

This project will expand TNMP’s transmission system, enhancing reliability and supporting the growing energy needs of the region. By investing in this expansion, TNMP is ensuring that more customers can access the power they need while strengthening the overall resilience of the grid.

Coyanosa

TNMP is committed to strengthening the electric grid to meet increasing energy demands and ensure reliable service for customers. To address significant load growth in Far West Texas, TNMP has proposed the Pecos County Transmission Improvement Project, a critical infrastructure upgrade that will enhance system reliability and support economic development.

In August 2023, TNMP submitted this project to ERCOT’s Regional Planning Group (RPG) as a Tier 1 project. The proposal includes constructing a new Coyanosa - Leon Creek double-circuit 138-kV transmission line to accommodate growing electricity demand, particularly from oil and gas operations, data centers, and virtual currency mining facilities. These industries have rapidly consumed available transmission capacity, surpassing the minimum requirements outlined under NERC TPL-001 Reliability Standards and ERCOT’s Planning Guide.

A study conducted as part of the project identified at least 1.47 GW of new load growth, reinforcing the urgent need for transmission upgrades. The study also highlighted steady-state performance deficiencies within TNMP’s Far West Texas transmission system, underscoring the necessity of these improvements to maintain grid stability and reliability.

Under PUC Substantive Rule 25.101(b)(3)(A), a new transmission line is required to either demonstrate economic cost benefits or be essential for meeting state and federal reliability standards. Because the Pecos County Transmission Improvement Project directly addresses reliability needs, it is a crucial investment in Texas’ electrical infrastructure.

TNMP remains dedicated to working with ERCOT and regulatory stakeholders to ensure the success of this project, securing reliable power for communities and industries in the region.