1. High-voltage or extra-high-voltage line siting study

A line siting study closely combines technical studies with administrative procedures. The whole process depends on the rules in use in each country. In this article, we describe the current (1993) procedure in France. It should be noted, however, that this procedure is not set in stone and is subject to constant change.

The aim is, of course, to build a reliable power line at minimum cost, while integrating perfectly into the environment (protocol of August 25, 1992 on the integration of electrical networks into the environment). This respect for the environment, the avoidance of obstacles and the difficulties of passage mean that the route is rarely a straight line.

In administrative proceedings, the parties involved are :

• State representatives with :

  • the...