03 Oct
Thursday, October 3 (Washington, DC) — Today, the Department of Energy (DOE) released its National Transmission Planning Study, which develops new transmission planning tools and methods, identifies potential transmission solutions, and proposes interregional strategies to strengthen grid reliability. The study finds that a substantial expansion of the transmission system would save the U.S. $270-490 billion through 2050, or $1.60-1.80 for every dollar spent on transmission, leading to significant net savings on the energy system.
DOE also announced four new Transmission Facilitation Program (TFP) awardees for a total transmission investment of about $8.8 billion. Funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, TFP provides federal support for projects that develop nationally significant transmission lines and increase resilience by connecting regions of the country. Three of the projects awarded TFP funds will be developed by ACEG supporters: Grid United is developing the Southline project across the Southwest; Pattern Energy is developing the 320-mile Southern Spirit line; and Invenergy is developing the Cimarron Link project which will help relieve major system congestion.
Americans for a Clean Energy Grid (ACEG) Executive Director Christina Hayes issued the following statement:
“ACEG strongly supports the Department of Energy’s National Transmission Planning Study, which represents a meaningful step forward in the nationwide effort to modernize and expand our electric transmission infrastructure. The study provides valuable insights into the transmission buildout and planning processes necessary to deliver affordable, reliable energy to American households and businesses. Its findings demonstrate that well-planned transmission, when considered in combination with generation, is the most cost-effective way to build out the grid. We look forward to working with DOE and other partners across the country in support of a national, interstate transmission system that delivers reliable and cost-effective energy to all customers.
“With so many transmission projects across the country ready to break ground, it’s encouraging to see critical projects — such as Southern Spirit, which could have provided crucially-needed energy in Texas and the Southeast during Winter Storms Uri and Elliott, respectively — receive funding through TFP to aid with moving forward in project development. ACEG is eager to support all of these awarded projects as they move closer to energization. Now, more than ever, it’s clear that America needs a grid to power America.”
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About Americans for a Clean Energy Grid:
Americans for a Clean Energy Grid (ACEG) is a non-profit, broad-based public interest advocacy coalition focused on the need to expand, integrate, and modernize the North American high-capacity grid. ACEG brings together a diverse coalition — including business, labor, consumer, environmental groups, and other transmission supporters — to advocate for policies that recognize the benefits of a robust transmission grid.
Media Contact:
Chloe Slayter, Communications Manager
chloe.slayter@cleanenergygrid.org | 805-556-5344
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