FERC’s regional grid expansion rule is ‘a beginning, not the end,’ experts say

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s new rule on regional transmission planning is a crucial step forward for US grid expansion, but the rule’s impact on the US clean energy transition will likely take years to materialize, according to industry experts. “I would caution us to think about this as a beginning, not the end,” Sarah Webster, senior vice president of market development for developer Pattern Energy Group LP, said during the May 21 briefing. Webster said Order 1920’s success will likely hinge on how it is received by states. “We need to collectively embrace the whole range of state reactions and orient toward those who have to advance this rule at the state level, wherever they’re coming from, as partners — not adversaries,” she said.

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