800 kV dc transmission

Two dc lines being built as part of the Pacific Intertie will have capacities much greater than any previous dc line, and each will be over 800 miles long, far longer than any ac or dc circuit now existing. Much of the design criteria had to be based on test information, a good part of which was collected at the BPA dc Test Center. Construction is underway on BPA's portion of the first 800 kV dc line. It is scheduled for completion in January 1969. After a series of tests it should begin carrying partial load in April and reach full power commercial operation in December 1969. The second line is scheduled for full power operation in January 1972.