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U.S. Dept of Energy announced a $1.3 billion commitment in three transmission lines, one in AZ

The U.S. Department of Energy announced a $1.3 billion commitment in  three transmission lines crossing six states, including Arizona. 

One of the three proposed lines is the Southline Transmission Project between New Mexico and Arizona. The project would help develop renewable energy and bring it to growing Arizona markets that currently rely on fossil fuels. Construction is set to begin in 2025.

The two other lines will help improve New England’s electric grid and other transmission lines already being used. The money comes from the infrastructure act, with the goal of adding additional grid capacity throughout the U.S, that  could power around 3 million homes. 

A separate $3.5 billion will go to 58 projects across 44 states to strengthen the nation's electric grid and add more renewable energy, battery storage, and microgrids. Money promised by private partners could result in up to $8 billion for this initiative.

Both points of funding are to help reach the goal of 100% clean electricity by 2035.

Jill Ryan joined KJZZ in 2020 as a morning reporter, and she is currently a field correspondent and Morning Edition producer.