US transmission policy in H1 2024 focused on spurring new lines, optimizing existing infrastructure

The difficulties of building new transmission facilities continue to impinge on the U.S. clean energy transition.

FERC issued a major rule in May that analysts expect will spur new transmission. But with the U.S. Supreme Court’s June 28 ruling overturning the Chevron doctrine, there’s also uncertainty about the rule’s future.

At the same time, there’s an increasing focus on how to bolster the performance of the nation’s existing transmission network via dynamic line ratings and other grid-enhancing technogies.

In addition, DOE and FERC have moved to update transmission permitting rules and grid operators around the country have been evaluating multi-billion dollar transmission plans.

The following stories capture notable developments in U.S. transmission from the first half of 2024.