Project Maps Distinct routes for the first and second cable and separate connections to the transmission grid are needed for optimum reliability. Criteria for the selecting cable routes and the Barnstable substation location included:

• Electrical suitability and reliability
• Potential for acceptable landfalls, and
• Minimal impact to natural habitats, wetlands and densely populated areas

A comprehensive search for potential cable routes and a location for the Cape-side substation and a suitable interconnection point to the regional transmission system was conducted. Ultimately, a site in Barnstable that is adjacent to Thornton Drive and the existing transmission line was selected for the substation. The site is zoned industrial and does not impinge upon environmentally sensitive areas.

On Nantucket, the cable will terminate at the existing Candle Street substation. No expansion of the existing footprint of the substation will be required to accommodate the new cable.

The land portion of the cable will be underground. The preferred routes can be viewed below: