Biden Administration Announces $371 Million to Expedite Transmission Permitting Across U.S.

The U.S. Energy Department on July 24 announced the selection of 20 projects across 16 states to obtain up to $371 million to support the expansion of a reliable and resilient electricity grid. The funding will expedite the permitting of high voltage, interstate transmission projects and support community infrastructure initiatives along major new power lines as well as upgraded lines. The projects are financed by the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act.

Administered by the Grid Deployment Office, the Transmission Siting and Economic Development, or TSED, grants will support the advancement of at least 16 high impact transmission lines across the U.S. Expansion of the transmission grid is critical to carrying additional clean, resilient electricity to large numbers of the population in other locations. The grant program will support permitting progress at the state and local level and ensure that communities hosting new and upgraded transmission infrastructure benefit directly. The initiative complements federal actions underway to bolster the transmission system, including streamlining permitting and investment in billions for projects that strengthen grid infrastructure.

The funding, distributed across 16 states, includes support for state and local agencies with resources and tools required to complete timely review of projects. For example, the Illinois Commerce Commission will receive $8 million to restructure and enhance the transmission siting process. The initiative will also support critical infrastructure upgrades in communities impacted by transmission development; for example, the Roosevelt Regional Council will receive $710,000 to enhance fire department amenities in a rural municipality in North Dakota to advance community resilience. Among other selected projects, the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources will receive $42.3 million to assist in installing a microgrid at a school to lower energy expenditure and enhance indoor air quality. The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Mission Indians will receive $5.6 million to support community employment development, with training, education and professional development.