The Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), which operates the grid for most of Michigan, has just approved a set of transmission lines that are expected to connect new renewable energy projects to customers, allowing the construction of an expected 53,000 megawatts of new power sources that will lower costs for electric consumers, leading to net benefits of up to around $50 billion.
“It is good news that MISO is overcoming barriers that have blocked new transmission lines for years,” Citizens Utility Board (CUB) of Michigan Executive Director Amy Bandyk said. “A more connected grid benefits ratepayers by enabling lower-cost renewable energy to flow to where it is needed, improving the reliability of electric service.”