A surge in clean energy projects, which have been driven by the US federal legislations – Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), has overwhelmed the California Independent System Operator’s (CAISO) interconnection processes. In a recent joint report from the Center for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Technologies (CEERT) and GridLab, titled “California’s Progress in Advancing Transmission Planning and Permitting – a 2023 Review,” concerns were raised about the state’s struggle to efficiently manage the growing number of transmission projects in its pipeline. While improvements in CAISO’s transmission planning processes have been noted, the report emphasises that California’s transmission development has not kept pace with reliability and clean energy needs over the past decade. Earlier in 2023, CEERT released two reports on the need for expansion of the high voltage transmission system expansion and permitting process reforms to overcome these challenges. The transition to a zero-carbon grid and economy is dependent on expanding and modernising California’s transmission system and building ties to the rest of the West.
The report underscores the importance of continuing to emphasise CAISO’s zonal approach to clean energy procurement by load-serving entities. Additionally, leveraging the longer-term planning horizon from CAISO’s 20-year transmission outlook is suggested to guide the California Public Utilities Commission’s (CPUC) integrated resource planning (IRP) process and future procurement orders. To navigate these issues, CAISO is urged to engage stakeholders in coordinating the development of the 2023-24 transmission plan. The report recommends prioritising transmission expansion in specific regions, including the Central Valley, Los Angeles Basin, Greater Bay Area, Imperial Valley Area, and San Diego. CAISO is encouraged to complete its interconnection enhancement process by February 2024. Legislative initiatives are proposed to support the adoption of grid-enhancing technologies and promote the use of advanced conductors for expanding transmission capacity on existing rights of way (RoW). The CPUC is advised to promptly reform its transmission permitting order and take a leading role in transmission permitting reform, including exploring the establishment of a renewable energy transmission authority to facilitate permitting and financing. The transition to a zero-carbon grid is crucial for California’s future, and the surge in clean energy investments stimulated by federal legislation has strained existing infrastructure. It emphasises the importance of legislative support for reform and explores the potential for a renewable energy transmission authority to expedite necessary projects.
In conclusion, the challenges outlined in the report underscore the critical need for coordinated efforts, legislative backing, and technological advancements to modernise California’s transmission system and achieve a sustainable, zero-carbon future. The upcoming legislative session provides an opportunity to revisit and advance reforms for efficient transmission planning and permitting.
The full report can be accessed here.
