It is no secret that our communities need reliable, efficient power. However, are states like California encouraging these companies to have a “green” mentality? A recent partnership between the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) and GridLiance proves so. GridLiance, an independent transmission-only utility company founded in 2014 and headquartered in Dallas, operates in CAISO, MISO, and SPP. Now, the company is setting out to coordinate with California’s grid in hopes of delivering power in Nevada. To advance their goal, the utility company suggested implementing their Silverado Renewables Connection plan and studying the needs of the transmission system as California continues its mission to provide low-cost energy generation.
Working to promote California’s goal of being more eco-conscious, the city of Petaluma, California, for example, recently announced their steps to ban all new gas construction to be carbon-neutral by 2030. CAISO plans to consider the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) plan and the transmission capacity during its transmission planning cycle this year to bring power to Nevada. If the proposal is accepted, not only would the project open doors for job opportunities and economic activity in southwestern Nevada, but it would also upgrade the electric transmission lines which run across Nye and Clark counties. According to the CEO of Valley Electric Association, the project would “improve the overall reliability and resiliency of the grid.” This movement could serve as a good opportunity to increase renewable generation to meet California’s emission reduction goals while advancing Nevada’s renewable energy resources sector as well.