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SB25-127: Optimizing Colorado Electric Transmission System
SB25-127: Optimizing Colorado Electric Transmission System
The 2025 session is over half way through, and already we have had 525 bills introduced! There has been a lot of action around the Capitol this year, with many important and sometimes contentious bills coming up for consideration. Among these important bills are four pieces of legislation that will have a major impact on the clean and renewable energy landscape in our state.
This bill expands the Colorado Electric Transmission Authority’s role by making transmission capacity studies mandatory and recurring every three years, while also requiring a statewide transmission plan. It designates the main authority as a “statewide transmission coordinator,” who will facilitate planning and regional coordination. Electric utilities must include transmission plans in their resource plans, evaluate advanced transmission technologies, and provide data for statewide coordination. The bill also allows the Public Utilities Commission to create incentives for using advanced transmission technologies.
If SB25-127 passes, the key outcomes will be:
- Improved Transmission Planning – Regular studies and a statewide transmission plan every three years will enhance grid development and capacity expansion.
- Statewide Coordination – The Colorado Electric Transmission Authority will oversee and coordinate transmission planning across utilities and regions.
- Increased Use of Advanced Technologies – Utilities must evaluate advanced transmission technologies, with potential incentives for adoption.
- More Transparent Utility Planning – Utilities will be required to include detailed transmission plans in their resource plans and share data for statewide coordination.
- Enhanced Grid Efficiency and Reliability – Long-term planning and advanced technology integration could improve grid resilience and accommodate more renewable energy.
This bill aims to modernize Colorado’s outdated electric transmission system, improve coordination, and encourage innovative grid solutions. Some concerns about this bill include the increased burden on electric utilities to produce reports every 3 years, and the ballooning costs of installing new transmission lines and technologies.
In summary, each of these bills looks to reshape the way energy projects are implemented and staffed, create new opportunities for clean energy technologies, and create faster ways for us to adopt renewable energy sources that will bring down costs and increase our grid’s resilience and self-reliance. We will keep you updated as these bills make their way through the state legislature!roving, meaning greater safety and efficiency.