By Erick Holguin, Perez Law Firm, PLLC · Updated November 2, 2026 · Texas Eminent Domain Blog
Short answer: The Public Utility Commission of Texas approved the Howard–Solstice 765-kV transmission line in September 2026 (Docket No. 59336), on Route 4 Modification 1. AEP Texas and CPS Energy will build the line, which runs roughly 370 miles from CPS Energy’s Howard station in southwest San Antonio to AEP’s Solstice station west of Fort Stockton. Landowners on the approved route should expect survey requests and easement offers. A 765-kV easement is large and permanent, so review the terms before you sign.
Howard–Solstice 765-kV line: key facts
| Utilities | AEP Texas Inc. and CPS Energy |
| PUC docket | Docket No. 59336 |
| Voltage | 765 kV |
| Approved route | Route 4 Modification 1 |
| Application filed | March 2, 2026 |
| Final order | September 2026 (filed September 18, 2026) |
| Length | Roughly 370 miles |
| Endpoints | CPS Energy Howard station (southwest San Antonio, Bexar County) to AEP Texas Solstice station (about 28 miles west of Fort Stockton, Pecos County) |
| Counties in the application study area | Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Crockett, Edwards, Kerr, Kinney, Medina, Pecos, Real, Sutton, Terrell, Uvalde and Val Verde |
The approved route does not cross every county studied in the application. Check the final order and route maps on PUC Interchange to confirm whether your tract is affected.
Why is the Howard–Solstice line being built?
It is one of the new 765-kV lines planned to carry more power between West Texas and the growing San Antonio area. Like the Permian Basin lines, it is part of a statewide push to add extra-high-voltage capacity. See our overview of Texas 765-kV transmission lines.
What happens next for landowners on the route?
- A request to survey, often with a right-of-entry form
- A written initial offer, with the Texas Landowner’s Bill of Rights
- A final offer at least 30 days later, with the appraisal reports relied on, and at least 14 days to respond
- If there is no agreement, a condemnation lawsuit and a hearing before three special commissioners
Issues for Hill Country and West Texas ranches
- Views and recreational value. Hunting, rural homesite and scenic land can lose significant value next to 765-kV towers.
- Wildlife and conservation programs. Check whether a wildlife valuation, conservation easement or game fencing is affected.
- Development near San Antonio. Land in Bexar, Medina and Atascosa Counties may have subdivision value well above its current use.
- Access and gates. Construction and maintenance access should be spelled out in the easement.
Frequently asked questions
Who will make the easement offer, AEP Texas or CPS Energy?
The two utilities are building different parts of the line. The company named as grantee in your easement is the one acquiring rights on your tract.
How wide is a 765-kV easement?
Easements for 765-kV lines are typically much wider than for lower-voltage lines. Check the width and the legal description in the easement offered to you.
Is it too late to do anything now that the route is approved?
No. The route is set, but compensation and easement terms are still open. That is where most of the value is decided.
On the Howard–Solstice route? Get a free review before you sign.
Send us the offer, easement or appraisal. Call 956-782-2700. Se habla español.
Related: Power line easements in Texas · Dinosaur–Longshore 765-kV line · Longshore–Drill Hole 765-kV line
Sources
- PUC Interchange, Docket No. 59336
- Texas Property Code, Chapter 21
General information, not legal advice, current as of the date above. Perez Law Firm, PLLC is not affiliated with AEP Texas, CPS Energy or the PUC. Attorney advertising. Responsible attorney: Erick Holguin, Perez Law Firm, PLLC, McAllen, Texas.