The Office of Electricity issued a Presidential Permit for Basin Electric Power Cooperative to construct, operate, and maintain two 230‑kv lines from existing substations in ND to Canada. The project will add up to 650M of transfer capability between the US and Canada.
May 21, 2026
Estimated Read Time min
WASHINGTON—The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Electricity issued a Presidential Permit authorizing Basin Electric Power Cooperative to construct, operate, and maintain two new 230‑kilovolt electric transmission lines extending from existing substations in North Dakota to the Canadian border. The project will add up to 650 megawatts of transfer capability between the United States and Canada, strengthening grid affordability and reliability and supporting an efficient, modern cross‑border electricity system.
“This Presidential Permit is another important step toward strengthening North America’s electric infrastructure,” said Katie Jereza, Assistant Secretary of the Office of Electricity. “By enabling up to 650 megawatts of new cross‑border transmission capability, we are supporting a more affordable and reliable grid, expanding opportunities for U.S. electricity exports, and reinforcing America’s position as a global leader in energy production.”
The permit approval advances DOE’s commitment to growing critical energy infrastructure in the public interest. By facilitating the expansion of North American transmission capacity, the project expands the nation’s ability to export electricity, helping to unleash American energy resources and strengthen regional energy security. Increased cross‑border electricity trading will lower costs for U.S. consumers by allowing surplus U.S. generation to access external markets.
In accordance with President Trump’s Executive Orders, Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation and Unleashing American Energy, DOE took steps to shorten permit review and processing timelines and eliminate the application filing fee. These actions reflect the Trump Administration and DOE’s commitment to streamlining permitting, reducing unnecessary regulatory burdens, and accelerating the development of critical infrastructure needed to deliver affordable, reliable, and secure energy to the American people.