Who Reviews the Rebuild? Closing the Transmission Regulatory Gap via Regional Reviewers

The U.S. needs to build two to three times more transmission to keep up with growing energy needs and replace outdated infrastructure. But are we building the right kind of transmission? Much of today’s transmission investment isn’t being properly scrutinized, falling into a “regulatory gap” with limited independent review of piecemeal, local transmission rebuilds and reliability projects. Some are questioning whether these projects are cost-effective and meet longer-term regional needs. How can policymakers close the gap to ensure transmission spending delivers maximum value for consumers? 

New England offers a promising model. ISO New England’s new Asset Condition Reviewer will bring independent technical scrutiny and greater transparency to transmission owner proposals to maintain and replace aging infrastructure. This panel will examine how the Reviewer could protect consumers, redirect investment toward more cost-effective and beneficial regional transmission, and reshape transmission owner incentives and business strategies. State officials, consumer advocates, transmission experts, and other stakeholders will discuss what the Reviewer needs to succeed and how other regions could adopt its blueprint.