IMPORTANCE OF MODERNIZATION

Transmission is key to unlocking our energy future. We need transmission to connect our country to renewable energy; improve electric reliability and system resiliency; and achieve widespread building and vehicle electrification. Given the 7-10 (or more) years it takes to plan, permit and build major transmission projects, our industry is already behind.

There are three areas that need to be addressed:

• We must strengthen our aging transmission system to combat both natural and man-made threats.
  

• We can only meet our carbon reduction goals by expanding our transmission system.
  

• We need an updated transmission system to create an electrified, green economy.

WE NEED POLICY THAT SUPPORTS TRANSMISSION DEVELOPMENT

• A recent Concentric study found that completed and active competitive transmission projects awarded to non-incumbent developers experienced an average of 12 months in schedule delays and 27% in cost increases, contrary to promises made by competitive developers in winning bids.

WE NEED TO CHANGE THE WAY WE PLAN FOR TRANSMISSION

•Planning needs to be broad and integrated.
•Planning needs to consider broad benefits as a first step to solving the cost allocation issue.
•Truly effective interregional planning requires coordination not just across but between RTOs.
•Customers benefit most when utilities cooperate to find solutions beyond their own service territories.

WE NEED TO RECOGNIZE THAT TRANSMISSION IS THE RIGHT TOOL

• Transmission lowers costs for customers by allowing access to less expensive generation.
• Transmission accomplishes a specific objective – moving bulk electricity from one place to another and doing it cost-effectively.
• As storage becomes more economical it will have a more active role and will complement – not replace – transmission.