Burnet County Intervenes in State Transmission Line Project

Local leaders file to protect landowners' interests as power line routes cut through the county

Apr. 8, 2026 at 12:25am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A photorealistic painting of a lone high-voltage electrical tower standing in a rural field, with warm sunlight casting dramatic shadows across the structure, evoking a sense of isolation and the impact of infrastructure on the landscape.Burnet County's intervention aims to hold utility companies accountable and prevent neighbor conflicts over a contentious transmission line project.Burnet Today

A major state transmission line project is moving forward, with all potential routes cutting through Burnet County. In response, local leaders have officially filed to intervene in the state-led approval process, aiming to hold the utility companies and regulators accountable and prevent neighbor conflicts.

Why it matters

This transmission line project is a high-stakes issue for Burnet County, as the various proposed routes would impact many local landowners. The county's decision to formally intervene demonstrates their commitment to protecting their constituents' interests and ensuring a fair process.

The details

The transmission line project, overseen by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT), the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), and utility companies like Oncor and the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), is advancing despite concerns from Burnet County residents. In response, the Burnet County Commissioners Court has filed to intervene in the proceedings, giving the county a seat at the table to advocate for landowner rights and a transparent approval process.

  • The transmission line project has been in development for several years.
  • Burnet County officials filed their intervention on April 5, 2026.

The players

Burnet County Commissioners Court

The governing body of Burnet County, Texas, which has filed to intervene in the state transmission line approval process to protect local landowners' interests.

Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT)

The state agency overseeing the approval process for the transmission line project.

Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT)

The independent system operator managing the electric grid in Texas, involved in the transmission line project.

Oncor

A major electric utility company participating in the transmission line project.

Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA)

A public utility company also involved in the transmission line project.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The PUCT will consider Burnet County's intervention in the ongoing approval process for the transmission line project.

The takeaway

Burnet County's decision to formally intervene in the state transmission line approval process demonstrates their commitment to protecting local landowners' interests and ensuring a fair, transparent process that does not pit neighbors against each other.