Bill > HB1081

This bill, titled the "Colorado Grid Optimization Act," aims to improve Colorado's electric transmission system by incorporating advanced technologies and strategies. It defines "advanced conductor" as a transmission wire that significantly reduces electrical resistance and increases energy carrying capacity compared to standard ones, and "advanced transmission technologies" broadly to include these conductors and "grid-enhancing technologies." Grid-enhancing technologies are defined as hardware or software that reduce congestion or increase flexibility in electricity transmission and distribution by boosting capacity or rerouting power, such as dynamic line ratings, advanced power flow controllers, topology optimization, and energy storage when used for grid purposes. The bill mandates that regulated electric utilities must include in their ten-year transmission plans an evaluation of these advanced transmission technologies, assessing their technical feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and potential to increase capacity, reduce congestion, speed up new connections, lower wildfire risk, and improve inter-state power transfer. Utilities will also need to identify strategies to reduce construction and financing costs for projects, potentially by considering bonds issued by the Colorado Electric Transmission Authority, and consult with the authority if they evaluate this option. The overall goal is to enhance grid reliability, resilience, and efficiency, leading to more affordable and modernized energy for consumers while considering environmental impacts.