Traditional methods of public involvement for utility infrastructure projects have not proven effective. STAR Group has successfully designed and implemented an extremely effective process that enables utilities to accomplish their infrastructure goals while improving relations with regulators, environmental advocates and ratepayers. As the following case studies demonstrate, whether you are considering a system upgrade or new infrastructure, STAR Group’s Utility Search Conference^® process is proven to get results.

Utility Projects - Unprecedented Success:

Progress Energy Florida's Baseload Transmission Project – Participants helped Progress Energy Florida site over 180 miles of new 500kV and 230kV transmission across 9 counties that will connect to a proposed green field nuclear power plant. Update: Citing STAR Group's Utility Search Conference® process, the Administrative Law Judge who conducted hearings on Progress Energy Florida's application to site a nuclear power plant and over 180 miles of related transmission recommended that the application be APPROVED. Excerpts from the ALJ's May 15, 2009 ruling may be reviewed here.

Vermont’s Southern Loop/Coolidge Connector – Citing the unprecedented level of public involvement employed, Vermont regulators approved the largest transmission project in the state's history, along with several renewable energy and demand reduction initiatives. The outcomes from this project were featured in this presentation to the Irish Wind Energy Association's Autumn (2009) meeting in Galway, Ireland.

PNM's Project Power – Thanks to STAR Group's process and for the first time in our client's history, each of seven independent regulatory bodies unanimously approved the proposed transmission line.

Santa Fe Loop – Participants helped PNM select acceptable routes for 2 new transmission lines in the heart of historic Santa Fe, New Mexico, including a route that the utility hadn't identified.