The state Public Service Commission has "deemed complete" an application filed by Transmission Developers Inc. to build a 384-mile power line under Lake Champlain and the Hudson River between Canada and New York.

This map shows the underwater cable's route. Click on the map to get a closer look at the project.The project is expected bring up to 1,000 megawatts of largely carbon-free power, including hydro and wind generation, to the New York City area, where demand is expected to exceed supply by 2012, according to PlaNYC.

TDI's completed application for a certificate of environmental compatibility and public need has triggered a stringent review process. Public hearings, including one likely to be held in Kingston, will be scheduled in October.

Phillip Musegaas, director of Hudson River programs for Riverkeeper, told the Middletown Times Herald-Record that the environment group will soon hire experts to study the power line in greater detail.

TDI is aiming to have its state and federal permits by next summer because the company needs to start construction by September 2011 to get $1.52 billion in federal stimulus loans. The entire project would cost $1.9 billion, said Don Jessome, CEO of TDI.

But TDI thinks it can beat the clock. The company last week sent notes to 12 construction companies in the United States, Europe and Japan asking for proposals to build the line.