Electric transmission expansion can be important for Governors to realize their policy objectives. However, multiple siting, permitting, and regulatory challenges pose significant barriers to transmission expansion. NGA is publishing this background brief to provide important background for Governors and Governors’ staff and highlight the tools Governors have at their disposal, based on state best practices, to more smoothly navigate and advance transmission projects.
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Introduction
The United States electrical grid is often referred to as the “largest machine ever made.” This “machine” was built across the United States over the course of the 20th century. The electrical grid crosses every county or parish of every state and territory of the United States. While the notion of the electrical grid as a single “machine” that provides power to every American is compelling, in reality the grid is comprised of thousands of entities operating fractions of the grid simultaneously. Given the mosaic nature of operation and governance of the electric grid, it has operated remarkably well for decades.
However, challenges to the grid, as it is currently structured, are beginning to mount….
