Oncor Electric Delivery Company received approval from the Public Utility Commission of Texas to build the El Capitan to Dry Lake 345 kV Transmission Line, a double-circuit line connecting Oncor’s planned El Capitan Switch in Culberson County to its proposed Dry Lake Switch in Reeves County. The application, filed February 26, 2026 under PUC Docket No. 59353, covers approximately 25 miles and is expected to be in service by fall 2028.
On July 15, 2026, SOAH issued a Proposal for Decision recommending Route 89. On August 20, 2026, the PUCT approved the project and adopted Route 89 as the approved route.
The approximately 25-mile project is expected to affect about 100 parcels, with right-of-way activity anticipated in fall 2026. If your property lies along or near Route 89, it is worth understanding what any survey access request, easement offer or other contact authorizes before you agree to it.
With the project and Route 89 approved, Oncor may seek to acquire the necessary easements and may pursue condemnation if a voluntary agreement cannot be reached. Texas law requires just compensation, and landowners have the right to negotiate the terms of any easement offered to them.
Landowner and attorney Dan Gattis can help you understand where this project stands and what it could mean for your property, whether you have already been contacted or simply want to know what to expect.
El Capitan to Dry Lake 345kV FAQs
An approved double-circuit 345 kV transmission line connecting Oncor’s planned El Capitan Switch in Culberson County to its proposed Dry Lake Switch in Reeves County, filed under PUC Docket No. 59353.
Oncor Electric Delivery Company LLC is the applicant and will construct and operate the line.
Approximately 25 miles, running between Culberson and Reeves Counties.
Yes. On August 20, 2026, the PUCT approved the project and adopted Route 89 as the final route.
The PUCT approved the project on August 20, 2026, with an anticipated in-service date of fall 2028.
Yes. With the project approved, Oncor may seek to acquire the necessary easements and may pursue condemnation if a voluntary agreement cannot be reached. Texas law requires just compensation.
Before signing a survey permission form, option, easement agreement or other document, consider having an experienced eminent domain attorney review it. Contact Dan Gattis for a free consultation, no strings attached, to review what you received and understand your rights.
