Building new transmission lines is one of many Achilles heel in the push for wind and solar. It’s just not possible to build that much new transmission in 25 years.
This has to be tough with data centers. I recently read an article about a major disruptive technology coming to that sector (supposedly) which is going to obliterate the electric demand. That would be terrible to be on the hook for billions in upgrades to feed these things only to then not need it.
Yes, although the new lines would strengthen the transmission system and would help if electrification efforts (EVs, electric heating, etc) increase load. So, not a total waste.
Fascinating. I especially enjoyed thinking about how one might price "grid reliability". I suggest you hold your discussions of same during a blackout for maximum effect.
One question. Are grid allocation costs based on potential energy production or actual energy delivered? I'm wondering how you handicap renewables that may not deliver as expected.
Reliability lines are primarily intended to address transmission reliability issues, primarily the potential for overloading lines or other facilities such as transformers. To my knowledge, this benefits are what cost allocations are based on—not on energy production or delivery. The one exception I know about is a general allocation to all electric systems in the MISO RTO was justified because it would facilitate renewable generators and reduce carbon emissions. This was upheld on appeal.
Building new transmission lines is one of many Achilles heel in the push for wind and solar. It’s just not possible to build that much new transmission in 25 years.
Net zero by any date is a pipe dream.
This has to be tough with data centers. I recently read an article about a major disruptive technology coming to that sector (supposedly) which is going to obliterate the electric demand. That would be terrible to be on the hook for billions in upgrades to feed these things only to then not need it.
Yes, although the new lines would strengthen the transmission system and would help if electrification efforts (EVs, electric heating, etc) increase load. So, not a total waste.
Thank you!
Fascinating. I especially enjoyed thinking about how one might price "grid reliability". I suggest you hold your discussions of same during a blackout for maximum effect.
One question. Are grid allocation costs based on potential energy production or actual energy delivered? I'm wondering how you handicap renewables that may not deliver as expected.
Reliability lines are primarily intended to address transmission reliability issues, primarily the potential for overloading lines or other facilities such as transformers. To my knowledge, this benefits are what cost allocations are based on—not on energy production or delivery. The one exception I know about is a general allocation to all electric systems in the MISO RTO was justified because it would facilitate renewable generators and reduce carbon emissions. This was upheld on appeal.
Makes sense. Thanks.