PSE&G yesterday tried a blocking move in its ongoing political and legal chess game with environmentalists and others opposed to the utility’s plans for a new high-power line.

In papers filed with the state Board of Public Utilities, which is considering approvals for the $750 million project, the utility said it would not oppose the efforts by 11 municipalities, school boards, corporations and a day camp to actively intervene in the process.

But it contends that the 300-member Stop the Lines, Fredon PALS and four environmental groups — Environment New Jersey, the New Jersey Highlands Coalition, the New Jersey Chapter of the Sierra Club and the New Jersey Environmental Federation– should not be granted intervener status.

Interveners in BPU cases are allowed to request discovery documents, cross-examine witnesses and present their own expert testimony.

The utility also is asking the BPU to reject a request that it pay up to $200,000 for the cost of expert witnesses hired by opponent groups.

The utility is proposing to the erect the 500-kv Susquehanna-Roseland electric transmission line along a 46-mile corridor between the Delaware Water Gap in Warren County and the town of Roseland in Essex County.

While we’re on the topic of transmission lines, check out this interesting story from today’s Washington Post, Renewable Energy’s Environmental Paradox.

MORE:
PSE&G seeks limits to transmission-line opposition
NJ’s Great Power Line Debate: Round 2
Proposed NJ electric power line prompts PR clash

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