Energy Policy & Legislation

A conversation with the FERC Commissioner about why putting state regulators front and center in transmission planning is so important.

“Pre-Order 1000, there was a fair amount of regional transmission development, and the most prominent examples are MISO MVPs, CapX2020, Balanced Portfolio in SPP. Those continue to provide massive benefits to customers. It makes a strong case for policymakers to say, ‘it’s time to go back to the federal right of first refusal.’”

“As difficult as it might seem to build a nuclear power plant, building multi-state transmission has proven more difficult. The Princeton study shows need for 3 or 4 times as much new transmission capacity added if you do the whole job with just renewables versus firm clean generation from things like nuclear.”

“There was a 2.5% rate decrease in our last rate case on the power side. Business is promising. I wouldn’t be surprised if we can manage our rates at least flat or in the zone of keeping them flat, this upcoming rate case.”

The Congressional Review Act is an efficient and effective way in which Congress preserved its role under the Constitution to make the laws.

“Collaboration with industry partners, including utilities, is key to our success in climate and sustainability.”

“The utility, a stakeholder that often flies a bit under the radar, will be an essential part of a sustainable zero-emission vehicle future.”

“We still are the most oil-dependent state in the nation and the most oil-dependent electricity systems. Our cost of energy remains extremely high. The sweet spot for these new technologies is it’s easier for them to be cost competitive here.”

“The Energy Transition Act is going to change the landscape for the Commission and utilities. We’re going from a firm power supply to alternative energy. That’s going to be a challenge to make sure you keep the lights on without any of the traditional firm power sources.”

“Energy decarbonization, reliability, and cost are the most urgent issues in front of the Commission. The common challenge behind all these issues is rapid change and an explosion of new technologies.”