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Public utilities

Vermont Public Utility Commission Approves T-Mobile Northeast, LLC Wireless Telecommunications Facility Modification

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The Vermont Public Utility Commission (PUC) has approved T-Mobile Northeast, LLC's application for a certificate of public good (CPG) to modify an existing wireless telecommunications facility in Lyndon, Vermont. The modification involves the installation of new panel antennas and equipment on an existing tower, which will not increase the height or width of the facility and will not create additional impervious surfaces.

The commission's order, issued on December 26, 2023, grants the certificate of public good after determining that the proposed modification qualifies as "de minimis modifications" to an existing facility, as defined in 30 V.S.A. § 248a(b)(2). The commission found that the project will promote the general good of the state and that the procedures authorized in 30 V.S.A. § 248a are sufficient to satisfy the public interest.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Vermont Public Utility Commission approved T-Mobile Northeast, LLC's application for a certificate of public good to modify an existing wireless telecommunications facility in Lyndon, Vermont.
  • The modification involves the installation of new panel antennas and equipment on an existing tower, which will not increase the height or width of the facility or create additional impervious surfaces.
  • The commission determined that the proposed modification qualifies as "de minimis modifications" to an existing facility, as defined in 30 V.S.A. § 248a(b)(2).
  • The commission found that the project will promote the general good of the state and that the procedures authorized in 30 V.S.A. § 248a are sufficient to satisfy the public interest.
  • The modification will consist of the installation of nine new panel antennas of varying sizes at a centerline height of 119' on the existing 120' monopole tower.
  • The antennas and equipment will extend approximately 3' above the tower and will extend a maximum of approximately 7' horizontally from the tower.
  • The net increase in aggregate surface area of the faces of the antennas and equipment to be attached to the tower is approximately 68 square feet.

Statistics:

  • The facility modification involves the installation of 9 new panel antennas, 2 equipment cabinets, and associated ancillary and operating equipment.
  • The antennas and equipment will extend approximately 3' above the tower and 7' horizontally from the tower.
  • The net increase in aggregate surface area of the faces of the antennas and equipment to be attached to the tower is approximately 68 square feet.
  • The modification will not increase the height or width of the existing structure or create impervious surfaces surrounding the facility.
  • The project qualifies as "de minimis modifications" to an existing facility pursuant to 30 V.S.A. § 248a(b)(2).

Sources:

  • Vermont Public Utility Commission, Order No. 23-3907-PET, December 26, 2023.
  • Vermont Public Utility Commission, Standards and Procedures Implementing 30 V.S.A. § 248a.

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