New rules aim to improve US grid planning processes

The US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) this week changed its requirements for transmission planning and cost allocation. The changes are aimed at helping consumers by enhancing the electricity grid’s ability to support wholesale power markets and ensuring transmission services are provided at “just and reasonable rates.”

The new FERC order requires public utility transmission providers to improve transmission planning processes and allocate costs for new transmission facilities to the beneficiaries of those facilities. It also requires public utility transmission providers to align transmission planning and cost allocation. According to the agency, the new requirements will remove barriers to development of transmission facilities.

“These changes will provide consumers with greater access to efficient, low-cost electricity,” said Jon Wellinghoff, chairman of FERC.

The new requirements will take effect within 60 days of publication in the Federal Register.