Transmission Reforms Could Slash Emissions, Boost Grid Reliability, and Save Consumers Billions

A new analysis from the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions found that reforms to federal transmission rules could significantly reduce power sector emissions, boost grid reliability, and save consumers billions of dollars.

The study modeled four regional power systems serving about half of U.S. electricity demand, showing a 9 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 2035, resulting in an estimated 71 million tons fewer emissions in these regions alone.

Modelling also found that reforms could reduce grid costs by $7 billion and lower residential electricity bills by $1.1 billion in 2035. The analysis showed a 76 percent reduction in costs associated with power shortfalls, with reduced exposure to fuel price volatility under high natural gas prices.

Nat Keohane, president of C2ES, said, 'America's electricity demand is rising faster than it has in decades... practical reforms to transmission planning and interconnection processes can unlock more clean energy, reduce our reliance on natural gas, lower costs for consumers, and help build a cleaner, more reliable electric grid.'