Vermont Public Utility Commission Approves T-Mobile Northeast, LLC's Wireless Telecommunications Facility Expansion

Strategic Insights -

The Vermont Public Utility Commission has approved T-Mobile Northeast, LLC's request for a certificate of public good to expand its wireless telecommunications facility in Montpelier, Vermont. The Commission's order, issued on July 28, 2021, grants the company permission to modify its existing facility, including the installation of new panel antennas and associated equipment. The expansion is considered a "de minimis modification" under Vermont law, as it does not significantly alter the facility's height, width, or impervious surface area.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Vermont Public Utility Commission approved T-Mobile Northeast, LLC's petition for a certificate of public good to expand its wireless telecommunications facility in Montpelier, Vermont, on July 28, 2021.
  • The expansion involves the installation of nine new panel antennas, replacing six existing ones, and the installation of associated operating and ancillary equipment.
  • The project is considered a "de minimis modification" under Vermont law, as it does not increase the height or width of the facility, nor does it create additional impervious surface area or extend above the building's penthouse by more than 10 feet.
  • The Commission found that the public interest is satisfied by the procedures authorized in 30 V.S.A. § 248a and that the proposed project will promote the general good of the State.
  • The order grants the certificate of public good, subject to the condition that T-Mobile Northeast, LLC complies with all terms and conditions set out in the CPG.
  • The Department of Public Service recommended that the Commission approve the petition without further hearings or investigation.
  • No other comments on the application were received by the Commission, and no party requested an evidentiary hearing or objected to the project.

Statistics:

  • The proposed expansion involves the installation of 9 new panel antennas compared to 6 existing antennas.
  • The net increase in aggregate surface area of the faces of the antennas and equipment to be attached to the building is approximately 20 square feet.
  • The project will not increase the height or width of the existing structure.
  • The impervious surface area surrounding the facility will not increase.
  • The antennas and equipment will not extend above the building penthouse by more than 10 feet.
  • The project is considered a "de minimis modification" under Vermont law, as it satisfies all the criteria outlined in 30 V.S.A. § 248a(b)(2).

Sources:

  • Vermont Public Utility Commission. (2021). Case No. 21-2146-PET Petition of T-Mobile Northeast, LLC requesting a certificate of public good. [PDF]. Retrieved from [https://files.vermont.gov/filestore/PUCC-Case-21-2146-PET.pdf](https://files.vermont.gov/filestore/PUCC-Case-21-2146-PET.pdf)