Why build more transmission lines? As more people and more industries locate in Florida, Progress Energy must enhance the transmission and distribution network to help ensure a continuous, reliable flow of electricity to homes and businesses in the region.

Siting and building new power lines to serve homeowners, businesses and industry in our region isn't something most folks have ever had reason to think about. Like flipping a light switch, it is only on those rare occasions when the light doesn't come on that we consider it at all.

But behind the scenes, Progress Energy is engaged in a continuous process of assessment, modeling and planning – a comprehensive resource evaluation that helps ensure the lights come on today, tomorrow and 10 years from now.

Facts:

• Population in Florida has increased significantly, and that robust growth rate is expected to continue.
  
  
• Progress Energy adds about 50,000 customers each year in Florida and the Carolinas.
  
  
• Without transmission system upgrades, parts of Progress Energy’s service areas could exceed electric system capability in the near future, potentially creating the types of electric system concerns that have plagued other parts of the country in recent years.
  
  
• Progress Energy has a regulatory responsibility to build facilities to ensure a reliable flow of electricity to the 9 million people we serve in Florida and the Carolinas.
  
  
• Electricity is far too important for our customers to risk service interruptions or problems with power quality due to inadequate facilities.
  
  

Here are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding Progress Energy’s process for building and siting new transmission facilities.