The real key is getting the utility to move the power lines across the building site, to another location. They could say no. They could say sure, but charge an exorbitant amount, or say yes and charge a reasonable amount. Really it all hinges on those stupid lines. Anyone have experience with this?
Yes, and it varies, by a lot.
- How far do you want to move it?
- Are you adding just two poles to dogleg around the home site, or do you want the line somewhere completely different?
- Is the line 240, or 7,800, or more? The higher the voltage the more expensive it will be.
Someone in this area lives in a suburban neighborhood, and the utility quoted him so much to run wire 230 feet ($750k?) that he saved money by going completely off grid with solar and commercial sized batteries.
The utility or co-op usually charges what it costs them, which is probably going to be pricey unless they have some pre-existing need to replace the wires. In my experience co-ops tended to be more reasonable.
You might ask if you can put the line underground and do it yourself with your electrician. New underground wire is going to be pricey, but might be a lot less than putting in new poles and wire, and sorting out the right of way.
My suggestion is to ask the utility, and then ask for alternatives to what they first suggest if it isn't what you want / need. e.g. Do you want 3 phase, and the overhead is only single? I would try to find ways to work with them. Being unfailing nice is the rule. It is trivial for them to obstruct, so try to get them enthused about your project. They know how to work their system.
Goldenrod is easy to manage. If you don't want it, mow the pasture in the summer. It is a native plant, is very beautiful and has lots of medicinal uses and there is NOTHING yuck about it.
Well, the pollen (and allergies therefrom) and the flavor that it imparts to honey are certainly "yuck" in my book, but I agree with you that a little mowing and grazing will get you back to native grasses pretty easily.
All the best,
Peter
