Utah Utilities Embrace Advanced Transmission Technologies Under HB 212 for Quick Capacity Boost

The recent technical briefing held in Utah on July 16, 2025, focused on the implementation of advanced transmission technologies (ATTs) as mandated by House Bill 212. This legislation requires utilities to analyze the potential of these technologies to enhance the existing power grid's capacity and efficiency. The meeting featured experts discussing how these technologies can be deployed quickly, within one to three years, allowing Utah customers to benefit from improved energy transmission sooner rather than later.

Key discussions highlighted the importance of ATTs in addressing several critical issues, including increasing transmission capacity, reducing system congestion, and enhancing reliability. The bill encourages the deployment of these technologies during Integrated Resource Planning (IRP) processes, allowing utilities to recover deployment costs if deemed prudent by the commission.

Julie Seltier, a leader in the grid-enhancing technologies sector, emphasized that the current grid operates below its potential capacity. She likened the grid to a highway with unused lanes, indicating that advanced technologies could unlock significant additional capacity. The meeting underscored the urgency of adopting these technologies due to projected load growth and the increasing number of interconnection requests from new energy generation sources.

Three primary technologies were discussed: advanced power flow control, dynamic line ratings, and topology optimization. Advanced power flow control devices can adjust the effective resistance of transmission lines, allowing for better power distribution. Dynamic line ratings utilize sensors to measure real-time conditions, enabling utilities to optimize the capacity of existing lines based on environmental factors. Topology optimization software analyzes grid configurations to find the most efficient power flow, potentially increasing capacity without the need for new infrastructure.

The meeting concluded with a strong call for utilities to embrace these technologies, which not only promise to enhance grid reliability and efficiency but also offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional infrastructure upgrades. As the demand for energy continues to rise, the implementation of ATTs could play a crucial role in ensuring a resilient and efficient power grid for Utah and beyond.