Understanding California’s Transmission Development Delays and Paths to Reform

The latest analysis by the Union of Concerned Scientists shows that California’s investor-owned utilities have not delivered the transmission buildout needed to meet state goals, nor have they fully addressed the reasons for continued delays.

Indeed, major transmission projects have taken an additional 6.1 years to complete, on average—more than double the original estimated completion time. Delayed transmission projects ultimately translate to delayed benefits to customers.

The barriers facing transmission development are not insurmountable; UCS recommendations to accelerate development include increasing agency resources and capacity for permitting processes; implementing public transmission financing pathways; accelerating clean grid technology solutions; and prioritizing transmission infrastructure that unlocks clean energy.