PJM Interconnection and the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) have recently announced a joint effort to conduct an interregional transfer capability study. This study aims to improve the transfer capability between regions, thereby strengthening grid resilience in the face of extreme weather events and the growing use of renewable energy resources.
Recognizing the need for increased coordination and careful planning, both organizations are looking to identify potential opportunities for near-term transmission enhancements. The study will focus on the seam shared by PJM and MISO, and will be guided by input from various organizations, including the Organization of PJM States, the Organization of MISO States, and the Midwestern Governors Association.
Promoting reliability and resiliency through holistic, efficient, and cost-effective transmission planning is a key goal of this collaboration. PJM and MISO plan to engage in joint transmission analysis and coordinated modeling, leveraging their planning processes to optimize the grid and ensure reliable energy delivery to consumers. The findings of the study, expected in early 2025, will be shared with the Interregional Planning Stakeholder Advisory Committee, which was established by PJM and MISO to review coordinated system planning activities.
PJM Interconnection, founded in 1927, serves 65 million people across multiple states and the District of Columbia. The organization oversees the region’s transmission grid and administers a competitive wholesale electricity market. PJM’s efforts in regional grid and market operations result in significant cost savings annually.
MISO, on the other hand, operates across 15 U.S. states and the Canadian province of Manitoba, providing safe and cost-effective electric power to approximately 45 million people. As an independent, not-for-profit organization, MISO is devoted to maintaining the reliable operation of the bulk power transmission system while collaborating with stakeholders to find innovative solutions for the evolving energy industry.
By undertaking this collaborative study, PJM and MISO demonstrate their commitment to a secure and resilient grid, paving the way for future interregional planning endeavors and ensuring that electricity consumers in both regions benefit from enhanced energy coordination.
While the article provides an overview of the collaboration between PJM Interconnection and MISO for an interregional transfer capability study, there are additional facts and insights that can be added to the discussion. Here are some key points to consider:
1. Current Market Trends:
– Increasing deployment of renewable energy resources: The shift towards cleaner energy sources, such as solar and wind, is growing in both the PJM and MISO regions. This trend is driven by environmental concerns and technological advancements.
– Transition to a more decentralized grid: With the integration of distributed energy resources, including rooftop solar panels and energy storage systems, the grid is becoming more distributed. This poses challenges for grid operators in terms of maintaining stability and ensuring reliable energy delivery.
2. Forecasts:
– Growing demand for interregional transmission capacity: As renewable energy generation grows, there is a need to transmit electricity across regions to balance supply and demand. This is likely to increase the demand for interregional transmission capacity in the future.
– Increased focus on grid resilience: With more frequent and severe extreme weather events, it is expected that grid resilience will become a top priority for grid operators. This collaboration between PJM and MISO is a step towards enhancing grid resilience and addressing potential vulnerabilities.
3. Key Challenges and Controversies:
– Regulatory and permitting issues: The construction of new transmission infrastructure, especially across state borders, can face regulatory challenges and delays. Streamlining the regulatory process is crucial for timely implementation of transmission enhancements.
– Cost allocation and rate design: Expanding transmission infrastructure can be expensive, and determining how the costs are allocated among stakeholders can be a contentious issue. Finding a fair and equitable method for cost allocation is important to gain support for transmission enhancements.
Advantages of the collaboration between PJM and MISO:
– Increased coordination and planning: By working together, PJM and MISO can identify opportunities for transmission enhancements that benefit both regions. This collaborative approach can lead to more efficient and effective grid planning.
– Improved grid resilience: The study aims to strengthen grid resilience, which is essential for reliable energy delivery during extreme weather events or other disruptions. By enhancing interregional transfer capabilities, PJM and MISO can increase system reliability.
Disadvantages of the collaboration:
– Complexity and coordination challenges: Coordinating between two large grid operators and involving multiple stakeholders can be complex and time-consuming. Ensuring effective communication and alignment of goals throughout the collaboration can be a challenge.
– Uncertainty in outcomes: While the study aims to identify near-term transmission enhancements, the final outcomes and their implementation may face uncertainties, such as funding availability and regulatory approvals.
For more information on the topic, you can refer to the official websites of PJM Interconnection (link name) and MISO (link name). These websites offer comprehensive information about the organizations, their operations, and ongoing initiatives related to grid resilience and transmission planning.