Number: RL32075
Title: Electric Reliability: Options for Electric Transmission Infrastructure Improvements
Authors: Amy Abel, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: The Energy Policy Act of 1992 introduced competition to wholesale electric transactions without a comprehensive plan to address reliability issues and the development of efficient wholesale markets. In addition, approximately half of the states have passed legislation or had regulatory orders to introduce retail competition, each with its own set of rules for utilities to follow. The blackout of 2003 in the Northeast, Midwest, and Canada highlighted the need for infrastructure improvements and greater standardization of operating rules. EPACT05 addresses some of the transmission issues by creating an electric reliability organization, establishing incentive-based rate-making for transmission, and allowing federal backstop authority for transmission siting. Until the electric power industry reaches a new equilibrium with more regulatory certainty, many observers predict, investment in transmission infrastructure and technology will continue to be inadequate.
Pages: 13
Date: September 20, 2006