The Midwest grid operator on Monday released a draft plan for the largest transmission expansion in its history, aimed at helping states meet carbon reduction goals and meet growing electricity demand.
The Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) estimates the new power lines will cost up to $23 billion. The proposal comes as states in the region debate who will build the transmission needed to bring more renewable energy to the grid and increase reliability.
MISO said the combined projects will create an “interstate electricity highway system” to meet states' climate goals, as well as utility and regional needs. It is the second set of new regional power lines proposed as part of MISO's multi-year long-range transmission planning process.
“The future grid must be able to incorporate new load growth and respond to extreme weather events, and a robust transmission system is needed to ensure this happens reliably and efficiently,” said Laura Rauch, MISO's executive director of transmission planning. “We know that further transmission development can provide value.”
