**Washington**: An analysis explores how electric transmission operators are adapting to regulatory changes, particularly FERC Order 1920, emphasising the role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in improving planning and compliance while addressing evolving energy demands and the integration of new technologies.
In a detailed analysis of the evolving landscape of electric transmission planning, Energy Central features insights from Bill Meehan of Esri and Kevin Gorham of the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) as they draw parallels between the struggles of the New England Patriots and the challenges faced by transmission operators in light of regulatory changes. The article discusses how long-dominant practices must shift to accommodate increasing demands driven by decarbonisation, the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), and the integration of artificial intelligence-driven data centres.
The context for this shift is anchored in the implementation of FERC Order 1920, a regulatory mandate that reshapes transmission planning with a focus on long-term strategies, fair cost allocation, and enhanced reliability. This order emphasises the importance of geographical considerations in planning initiatives, requiring utilities to rethink their approaches to meet rising electricity demands and emerging technologies while also maintaining compliance with regulatory expectations.
“FERC 1920 is your new playbook,” the authors state, likening the current state of grid management to that of a struggling sports team needing to devise new strategies to win over fans and stakeholders who demand improved energy outcomes. The challenges presented by climate change, economic constraints, and the need for innovation push operators to reassess their traditional models of operation.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) emerge as a critical tool in this new environment, offering capabilities to map out transmission lines, substations, and consumer demand zones. “GIS is the ultimate playbook tool,” the authors declare, signifying its role in identifying weaknesses and opportunities within existing frameworks. This technology can model various scenarios, helping decision-makers visualise potential outcomes related to weather variability, load increases, and renewable energy integration.
Furthermore, the complexities of cost allocation highlighted in FERC 1920 are tackled through the mapping capabilities of GIS, which clarify energy flows and help pinpoint congestion points and zones for renewable resources. This increased transparency is essential to ensure that investments are made fairly and effectively, potentially alleviating concerns from regions who may fear they are shouldering disproportionate costs.
The regulatory landscape is compounded by the need to align with broader public policy goals relating to carbon reduction and the incorporation of inverter-based resources (IBRs), such as renewable energy facilities. The article emphasises how GIS enables utilities to site new energy projects strategically, maximising efficiency while fulfilling compliance requirements.
Data reporting and sharing are also transformed under this framework. The authors note that GIS can automate and streamline compliance reporting processes, making it easier for stakeholders to access clear, actionable information on grid operations and performance. This data-driven approach ensures that regulators receive necessary insights while also facilitating collaboration among transmission providers and policymakers.
As the article concludes, it underscores the imperative for transmission operators to adapt to the shifting regulatory landscape dictated by FERC 1920. The confidence provided by GIS tools positions utilities to navigate these challenges effectively, facilitating both compliance and the successful integration of evolving energy technologies. The cooperation of these advanced monitoring systems can ultimately enhance the resilience and reliability of electric grids, potentially leading to successful outcomes akin to a sports team returning to form.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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