Looking for a turnaround in transmission

17 snips

Nov 20, 2025

Rob Gramlich, founder and president of Grid Strategies, discusses the exciting revival of transmission projects in the U.S. with Shayle Kann. They dive into the significance of the recent $8.6 billion SPP plan and the ongoing progress of the Grain Belt Express despite DOE challenges. Rob argues that the DOE's push for faster large-load interconnection is a hopeful sign, but explains why data centers haven't significantly boosted transmission. He also shares insights on permitting reform and innovative solutions to enhance grid capacity.

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INSIGHT

Uptick Is Real But Fragile

U.S. transmission buildout shows tentative improvement but remains fragile and slow.
Many 2024 miles were completions of decade-old projects, not new starts.

INSIGHT

Order 1920 Could Shift Planning

FERC Order 1920 pushes proactive 20-year regional transmission planning.
Its ultimate strength depends on how FERC enforces compliance filings.

INSIGHT

Access Needs Capacity Too

Federal action on grid access signals priority for data-center-driven demand.
Expanding grid capacity must follow access reforms to be meaningful.

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After years of stalled transmission buildout, there are new signs of progress. Earlier this month, SPP approved $8.6 billion in transmission projects across 14 states. Major plans are emerging in MISO, PJM, and ERCOT. Despite the DOE canceling its loan guarantee, the Grain Belt Express is still moving forward. And regardless of court battles, so is the New England Clean Energy Connect.

Are these signs that the U.S. could start building transmission at scale again?

In this episode, Shayle talks to Rob Gramlich, founder and president of Grid Strategies. He and Shayle cover topics like:

Why Rob says the DOE’s efforts to fast-track large-load interconnection is a positive sign for transmission buildout

The recent buildout of 880 miles of transmission and why it may look better than it is

Why transmission hasn’t benefited from data center investment

Specific projects, including SPP’s transmission backbone and the Grain Belt Express

Rob’s outlook on buildout over the coming year

The uncertain future of permitting reform despite bipartisan support

Resources:

Catalyst: Unpacking DOE’s proposal to transform data center interconnection

Latitude Media: How the Grain Belt Express lost its LPO loan

E&E News: Data center growth cited in defense of MISO transmission plan

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Credits: Hosted by Shayle Kann. Produced and edited by Daniel Woldorff. Original music and engineering by Sean Marquand. Stephen Lacey is our executive editor.

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