NORWICH – Two years ago, New York Regional Interconnect said its power line would raise electricity rates upstate.

New studies now show NYRI’s power line would not only lower wholesale energy costs by 5.7 percent in most parts of this region in the next 10 years, but would also encourage investment in renewable energy as well, company officials contend.

So was it a blessing in disguise then that these latest studies were ordered by the PSC, considering how flattering the new information appears to be compared to NYRI’s first round of claims?

NYRI attorney Leonard Singer doesn’t think so.

“I wouldn’t characterize it as a blessing in disguise,” Singer said, adding that it’s “a positive for everyone” that more up-to-date scientific, environmental and economic information was “fleshed-out” this time around. NYRI’s first Article VII permit application was ruled deficient.

Company officials offered summary information of their newest Article VII filing Friday, discussing with reporters the highlights of the proposal, including various plans to underground the line and the potential for opening the grid for wind power and other projects.