Electricity Transmission in Michigan's Central Upper Peninsula: Problems and Prospects

Historically, overall economic development in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan has been slow relative to the remainder of the state. Many factors have contributed to such a lag: most may be grouped under the general geographic concept of accessibility. A variety of barriers to accessibility have had a negative impact on the expansion of the region. For example, distance from major markets in southeastern Michigan and Wisconsin and a harsh winter environment in the Upper Peninsula are two barriers commonly noted. However, another significant barrier exists which affects the development of the Upper Peninsula. It is the relative unavailability of reliable electric power in parts of the region. For future economic growth there, improvements in the electricity transmission system must be made, particularly in the central portion of the region. This paper is focused on five counties in the central Upper Peninsula (Figure 1). Its purposes are: (1) to assess the present situation concerning electricity transmission in the region, (2) to identify power-related problems there, and (3) to present recommended possible alternatives to improve reliability. Resolution of problems would insure delivery of adequate supplies of electric power in the future and enhance the potential for further economic expansion.