High Level

Advanced transmission technologies and governance debates shaped this week’s transmission developments. Google and CTC Global announced a high-profile initiative to scale up advanced conductors using existing infrastructure, while MISO’s attempt to limit independent oversight of its planning processes raised regulatory concerns. The events reflect rising pressure to deploy capacity faster while preserving credibility in grid investment.

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Google and CTC Global Launch Advanced Conductor Retrofit
Utility Dive, June 17, 2025

  • What happened: Google and CTC Global launched a joint initiative to accelerate deployment of ACCC conductors on existing transmission lines.
  • Who did it: The companies jointly issued a Request for Information to utilities and states, targeting projects in areas with Google data centers.
  • Why they did it: The goal is to double transmission capacity using existing poles and towers, enabling faster response to AI-driven load growth without lengthy permitting processes.
  • Stakeholder views: CTC CEO J.D. Sitton called the project “a turning point to lower electricity costs… and advance U.S. energy dominance.” The initiative aligns with FERC Order No. 1920, which instructs transmission providers to consider advanced conductors as a required non-wires alternative.
  • What happens next: RFI responses are due by July 14, 2025, followed by a Request for Proposals. Successful projects will inform broader application of advanced conductors nationally.
    Source

MISO Petitions to Restrict Independent Market Monitor Oversight
Utility Dive, June 16, 2025

  • What happened: MISO filed a petition with FERC seeking to limit the authority of its independent market monitor, Potomac Economics, over unsolicited transmission planning reviews.
  • Who did it: The Midcontinent Independent System Operator initiated the petition; ten state commissions and multiple market monitors filed opposing comments.
  • Why they did it: MISO argued that Potomac’s review of its $22 billion Tranche 2.1 transmission portfolio exceeded its mandate and imposed over $300,000 in costs between 2023 and 2024.
  • Stakeholder views: The Mississippi Public Service Commission said limiting Potomac “would erode essential consumer protections.” Market monitors from PJM and ISO New England defended Potomac’s authority to assess how planning affects market outcomes.
  • What happens next: FERC will rule on the petition, potentially redefining the scope of independent oversight for regional transmission planning nationwide.
    Source

What’s the So What?

Faster, more flexible transmission expansion is essential to support electrification, AI-era computing loads, and clean energy targets. Google and CTC’s conductor deployment initiative offers a practical, near-term method to increase capacity without the multi-year burden of new line permitting. If scaled, advanced conductor retrofits could offer rapid gains in constrained corridors.

However, transparency in planning remains critical. Efforts to limit independent market monitors—such as MISO’s petition—could undercut confidence in multi-billion-dollar transmission proposals. Restricting oversight risks inflating costs and weakening consumer protection. Together, these developments suggest that the future of transmission depends not only on technical innovation, but also on preserving accountability frameworks that ensure credibility and justifiability of investments.

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