Core to RioSol’s 17-year development history has been understanding the immense environmental responsibility for a project of this size and minimizing any impact. RioSol was initially permitted as the SunZia Project’s second 500kV line. A Federal right-of-way grant was issued for both transmission lines after completing an extensive Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process, issued in 2015 and 2023, pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act.

RioSol will traverse approximately 550 miles through New Mexico and Arizona. Where possible, the route will be located near other existing transmission lines. Structures will typically be 135 feet in height. Tower heights will vary from 100 to 190 feet in height depending upon terrain and will be constructed with materials that complement its surroundings, minimizing their visibility from a distance. When needed, RioSol will utilize aerial-only (helicopter) construction techniques to minimize  ground disturbance in specific areas.

The wide-open expanse of the Desert Southwest offers views that extend for miles. An infrastructure project like RioSol must be engineered to be as unnoticeable as possible, and this task requires innovation. The tower’s metal lattice and cables are designed specifically to blend into the landscape.

RioSol is dedicated to minimizing impacts to wildlife and preserving natural habitats that may be affected by the project. Funding and conducting important biological and wildlife studies have resulted in creating mitigation, restoration, and preservation plans that will guide our approach to construction and operations. These resources and land management programs were selected as part of an extensive Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process based on federal regulatory requirements and policies, concerns of the lead and cooperating agencies and/or issues identified during scoping.

The resources evaluated in the Environmental Impact Study of RioSol’s Transmission Line include:

RioSol’s route avoids densely populated areas and, where feasible, will be located near existing transmission lines and roads. RioSol’s final location was determined after extensive environmental reviews required at the federal and state levels, coordination with state land departments, and other entities with facilities near the RioSol line.

In addition, engaging and working with landowners is a critical part of our process to determine routing. The RioSol team works closely with landowners to ensure fair compensation for right-of-way easements. Our land team also works with the local community to conduct outreach through public open house events and local meetings. RioSol strives to benefit the lives of all who are investing various resources to make this project possible.

This route was selected as the BLM preferred alternative because it will: