Sweatt-Whidden Transmission Line

Delivering reliable energy for today and tomorrow.

FPL is committed to delivering reliable service to our customers and properly planning for anticipated growth throughout the state. To do so, the company continues to invest in our energy grid. FPL is proposing to build an approximately 80-mile transmission line from Okeechobee to DeSoto counties. The proposed transmission line would improve system reliability for our customers and support future growth in the area. The project also includes enhancements to existing substations and infrastructure in the area and serves substations in Okeechobee, DeSoto and Highlands counties.

Quick Facts

The 230-kV line would begin at Sweatt substation in Okeechobee County and end at Whidden substation in DeSoto County.
FPL evaluated various potential routes for the new transmission line, some of which include existing rights-of-way and easements.
This project was certified under Florida’s Electric Transmission Line Siting Act (TLSA) on September 22, 2022.
FPL is committed to keeping the community informed throughout the process and we will provide additional information as the project progresses.
FPL pledges to work safely and respectfully and abide by applicable environmental and governmental regulations.
We plan to bring the new transmission line into service in 2026.

Project Timeline

Early-2022: Public Engagement and Input
2022-24: Design and Permitting
February 2024: Construction
Mid-2026: In Service

Construction Process

Construction consists of right-of-way clearing, access road construction (where necessary), line construction and restoration
Structures are generally delivered using semi-trucks and trailers
All vegetation maintenance is conducted according to approved standards
Equipment used for construction typically includes trucks, trailers, cranes, auger diggers and other support vehicles

Permitting

FPL will abide by applicable environmental and governmental regulations
Project was licensed through the State’s Transmission Line Siting Act (TLSA) on September 22, 2022.
TLSA streamlines all state and local agency permitting processes into a single process
Administered by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection
After a review of various factors and constraints, FPL identified and certified a Corridor for the proposed transmission line
Additional federal permits will need to be obtained

Environmental and Cultural Resources

The following resources are being analyzed:
- Vegetation
- Wildlife
- Aquatic Life
- Scenic, Cultural, and Natural Landmarks
- Archaeological and Historic Sites