New York Commission Enhances Coordinated Grid Planning Process to Improve Transmission Strategy

The New York State Public Service Commission on Nov. 13 approved a new set of updates to the Coordinated Grid Planning Process to improve the efficiency, transparency and accuracy of long-term transmission planning. The action enhances stakeholder engagement efforts and streamlines both modeling work and proposal development. The planning process continues to evolve and remains a leading example of a modern planning framework for other regions.

The process was initiated in 2020 following the Accelerated Renewable Energy Growth and Community Benefit Act, which required a long-term transmission planning structure to support statewide clean energy goals. The agency approved the planning framework in mid-2023, and the first cycle of studies is underway. The cycle will conclude in early 2026, at which point the major utilities will submit a portfolio of grid upgrades for review to maintain progress on electricity decarbonization and system reliability.

In its latest decision, the commission adopted modifications that will apply to future planning cycles. It also authorized a phased approach for developing cost estimates in the next stage of the process. The updates are designed to refine the current structure rather than change its overall direction.

Submitted comments showed broad agreement on the need to improve specific elements of the CGPP. Stakeholders supported the recommended changes and highlighted the importance of strengthening certain aspects of the planning effort. They also unanimously opposed one proposal focused on shifting modeling work outside the process managed by the New York Independent System Operator, reflecting shared interest in maintaining a consistent statewide approach.