ESIG Task Force Recommends Transmission Planning Reforms for a More Reliable Grid
- Jan 8
- 1 min read
Industry group proposes updated planning and interconnection rules to improve grid reliability and support future transmission projects.
On January 5, 2026, the Electric System Innovation Group (ESIG) released recommendations to modernize transmission planning processes across the United States. The task force focused on improving reliability, increasing transparency, and streamlining interconnection for new projects. Key proposals include enhanced forecasting methods, standardized evaluation criteria for large-scale projects, and better integration of renewable resources and emerging technologies into long-range transmission plans.
The task force recommends more accurate load and resource forecasting to reduce planning uncertainty.
Standardized project evaluation criteria aim to improve transparency and comparability of transmission proposals.
Integration of renewable and emerging energy technologies is emphasized to future-proof the grid.
Streamlined interconnection processes could accelerate project timelines and reduce regulatory bottlenecks.
The recommendations are designed to support both existing and new transmission corridors across regional grids.
“The extreme uncertainty in the load forecasts based on uncertainty about the addition of large data center loads raises questions about the meaning of clearing a capacity auction based on those forecasts."
CONCLUSION
These recommendations highlight the importance of clear, consistent planning and interconnection standards for enabling large transmission projects, including HVDC corridors. For HVDC America, implementing similar best practices can reduce regulatory uncertainty, improve stakeholder alignment, and speed deployment of interregional HVDC links. Engaging with regulatory processes and adopting transparent planning methods is critical to ensure financing, permitting, and construction milestones are met efficiently.
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