AEP 765-kV System: General Background Relating to Its Development

The decision to introduce 765 kV on the American Electric Power (AEP) system is related to the general development of EHV transmission in this country and abroad. In 1952 AEP pioneered in developing 345-kV transmission as an overlay to the then existing 138-kV system and is now pioneering in the development of 765-kV transmission as an overlay to both the 345- and 138-kV systems to assure a fully integrated operation. Load growth, reliability, prudent use of land and rights-of-way, and economics of EHV transmission are discussed as related to the decision to construct the 765-kV system.