Bill headed to Governor aims to modernize Utah’s existing grid with new technology
SALT LAKE CITY – A bipartisan victory for energy came this legislative session with a bill that promotes efficiencies in current transmission infrastructure to expand capacity to meet Utah demand.
BILL HIGHLIGHTS
- HB 212, sponsored by Representative Christine Watkins (R) and Senator David Hinkins (R), requires electric utilities in the state to analyze the cost-effectiveness and timeline for the deployment of advanced transmission technologies (ATTs) in any proposal to expand the transmission system.
- ATTs are software and hardware tools that boost the capacity of transmission lines to carry more electricity. These technologies are cost-effective and deployed faster than new infrastructure.
- Using ATTs to modernize Utah’s grid infrastructure will reduce costs to consumers by easing grid congestion and decrease wildfire risks and electricity lost through better designed conductors.
QUOTES FROM SUPPORTERS
Rep. Christine Watkins, HB 212 sponsor
“Energy demand is rising, which is why we need reliable, affordable transmission solutions that we can deploy now. Utah has the infrastructure to get electricity to where people need it and advanced transmission technologies are the low-hanging fruit to get more energy out of the grid we already have.”
-Rep. Christine Watkins, Utah House District 67
The Pew Charitable Trusts
“HB 212 is a game changer for Utah’s electric grid—quickly boosting capacity, efficiency, and reliability. By promoting grid modernization and reducing costs for consumers, this legislation enables a more resilient transmission grid that can deliver the abundant power needed for Utah’s future.”
-Carter Harms, The Pew Charitable Trusts energy modernization project
Utah Manufacturers Association
“Manufacturing is the engine that drives Utah’s economy, and that engine needs power. HB 212 helps to ensure we have transmission of that power that is cost-effective and secure. Using efficient technology to optimize energy use keeps us moving forward.”
-Todd Bingham, President /CEO, Utah Manufacturers Association
Utah Clean Energy
“Advanced transmission technologies are a critical part of affordably and quickly bringing online new energy resources, while making our grid more resilient in the face of wildfires and extreme weather. HB 212 is a critical first step in making good use of these technologies here in Utah, this is a win for Utahns.”
-Josh Craft, Director of Government Relations, Utah Clean Energy