The MISO Board of Directors made a historic decision today by approving what is believed to be the largest single investment in the US power grid. Clean Grid Alliance, a transmission advocacy group, hails this as the most significant regional grid upgrade in the country’s history.
In 2022, MISO introduced a series of transmission upgrades known as “Tranche 1” as part of its Long Range Transmission Planning initiative. These projects are currently going through the state permitting process. Today, MISO has taken the next major step with “Tranche 2.1,” which includes 24 projects amounting to nearly $22 billion in total investment. These upgrades will not only unlock vast amounts of clean energy but also enhance the reliability and resilience of the power grid.
Analysis by MISO shows that the benefits of completing these projects outweigh their costs across all MISO zones in the Upper Midwest. The benefit/cost ratio indicates that for every dollar spent on Tranche 2.1 projects, as much as $5.5 dollars will be returned in benefits.
Moving forward, let’s delve into what Tranche 2.1 means for key Midwest states like Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
Illinois is set to receive $2.9 billion in investments for three primary projects, including new 765 kV transmission lines and substation work. MISO estimates that this initiative will generate thousands of direct jobs and billions of dollars in economic output. Clean Grid Alliance predicts that Tranche 2.1 will enable the addition of over 15,000 MWs of new clean energy in Illinois, creating thousands of jobs.
Michigan’s $2.7 billion investment includes two new 345 kV transmission lines and a 765 kV line. Similar economic benefits are expected in Michigan, with thousands of direct jobs and billions in economic output. Clean Grid Alliance estimates that close to 8,000 MWs of new clean energy will be added in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, powering over a million homes and creating tens of thousands of jobs.
Wisconsin’s $4.1 billion investment comprises various projects, including new transmission lines and substation upgrades. MISO projects thousands of direct jobs and billions in economic output for Wisconsin. Clean Grid Alliance predicts over 6,600 MWs of new clean energy in Eastern Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, along with a significant addition of clean energy in the Western part of Wisconsin.
These transmission upgrades align with the clean energy and climate goals of Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin. As states transition to cleaner energy sources, these upgrades play a crucial role in ensuring grid stability and reliability while saving ratepayers money.
The next steps for MISO’s Tranche 2.1 projects involve state processes for further evaluation and review. It is essential for states to engage in inclusive processes to gather input from affected communities. MISO’s Long Range Transmission Planning process demonstrates the benefits of investing in modern transmission infrastructure to achieve clean energy goals. Let’s continue celebrating these smart investments and work towards a healthier, safer, and more affordable electricity future.
