A key part of modernizing the nation’s electric grid involves adding long-distance transmission lines, the power lines that carry electricity over hundreds of miles. 

To better understand this critical part of the electrical infrastructure, we sat down with Melissa Birchard, a senior adviser in the Grid Deployment Office of the U.S. Department of Energy. The office was created in 2022 to work on a variety of issues related to the electrical grid and, in particular, integrating power from new renewable energy projects.

Melissa talked about some of the issues involved particularly in the planning and siting of transmission lines. She explained the need for new transmission lines to bring renewable energy from remote areas of the country to the cities and towns where it’s needed. 

Our other guest is Alex McWard from NCSL, who tracks legislation related to the state role in transmission line planning and siting. He discussed the role of state legislatures in transmission projects and in working with other states on regional projects.

Resources

• Coordinated Interagency Transmission Authorizations and Permits Program, U.S. Department of Energy
• Electric Transmission Planning: A Primer for State Legislatures, NCSL
• Engagement Between States and Regional Transmission Organizations, National Council on Electric Policy
• Grid and Transmission Program Conductor, U.S. Department of Energy
• Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program, U.S. Department of Energy
• National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor Designation Process, U.S. Department of Energy
• Transmission Facilitation Program First Round Selections, U.S. Department of Energy