MORE AFFORDABLE TRANSMISSION

New Study Shows Benefits Of Regional Transmission Cost Sharing
14 June 2011 (North American Windpower)

"…An agreement to share costs of regionally beneficial electric transmission projects was adopted by stakeholders in the Midwest and approved by the Federal Energy Regulation Commission in 2010…According to [an Anderson Economic Group (AEG)] study, the expected benefits to Michigan from the proposed projects include…

"…[1] Improved access to electricity in other states, especially those where electricity prices are significantly lower than in Michigan…[2] A strengthened regional economy and a more reliable grid across the region…"

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"…[3] Strengthened demand for Michigan-based manufacturers of wind turbines and other alternative energy components; and…[4] Better access to wind energy from across the region.

"If the cost-allocation plan is significantly modified, unintended consequences may include disproportionate costs shifted to Michigan's Upper Peninsula and other states in the Midwest and delays in improving the grid, including reliability issues…"