Apr 28, 2021 - Politics & Policy

White House begins push for more transmission lines

Ben Geman

Picture of Jennifer Granholm — Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm. Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images

The Biden administration is looking to jumpstart the construction of new transmission lines by offering up to $8.3 billion in loans and, separately, issuing new guidelines to help state officials with siting.

Driving the news: The Energy Department on Tuesday invited applications for up to $5 billion in loans for projects like high-voltage systems; transmission for offshore wind; and systems that follow rail and highway routes.

It's separately offering up to $3.25 billion from the Western Area Power Administration.
Meanwhile, the Transportation Department released details for how its offices should work with states on siting for transmission, renewable energy projects, EV charging and more.

Why it matters: The major build-out of renewables generation the White House hopes to accelerate will need new infrastructure to carry and integrate those electrons.

But getting transmission built is notoriously hard, and jurisdiction is fragmented both federally and between the federal government and states.

Yes, but: While Tuesday's announcements are using existing finances and authorities, the White House is also asking Congress to help.

The White House infrastructure proposal calls for steps including the creation of a new tax credit for developing high-voltage transmission.

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White House begins push for more transmission lines

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