Applications for Permits to Site Interstate Electric Transmission Facilities

Key metadata

Document number

2024-24526

Type

Rule

Publication date

2024-10-23

Effective date

2024-11-22

Agencies

Energy Department, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

CFR references

18 CFR part 50, 18 CFR part 380

Original source

Federal Register

US FERC Modifies Transmission Siting Rule, Effective November 22, 2024

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has issued an order that partially modifies and sets aside its previous Order No. 1977, which updated federal regulations for permitting interstate electric transmission facilities. This new order responds to rehearing requests from various stakeholders regarding the initial rule, which aimed to streamline and modernize the federal siting process for new transmission lines under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).

Why it matters

Efficient and timely siting of new transmission is crucial for connecting large-scale battery storage projects, integrating new clean electricity generation, and enhancing overall grid reliability and resilience. While the specific changes made by this new order are not detailed in the provided text, any adjustment to transmission siting rules can impact the speed, cost, and feasibility of building the necessary infrastructure to support the deployment of advanced battery storage and other clean energy technologies. This directly affects the ability to bring new projects online and reduce grid congestion.

Who is affected

Developers of interstate transmission projects, renewable energy generators (including those with co-located battery storage), grid operators, and states involved in transmission planning and permitting processes.

Key timing

This new order is effective November 22, 2024.