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Members seek testimony and added PUC oversight before interregional transmission agreements with PJM/ISO are advanced
Summary
Committee members requested detailed briefings from VELCO, ISO New England and the Department of Public Service after members raised concerns about proposed interconnection or interoperability with the PJM region; one proposal would make interregional transmission agreements subject to PUC approval.
A member raised concerns about recent work on potential interconnections between ISO New England and the PJM regional transmission organization and asked the committee to seek expert testimony. The speaker said the prior hearing with VELCO and the Department recalled major long‑term studies considering interconnection and urged the committee to understand potential impacts on Vermont ratepayers.
The raising member noted dynamic changes in demand driven by large loads such as data centers in PJM territory and said better oversight and information is needed before agreements move forward. As presented to the committee, the proposal would amend Title 30 to add a duty such that interregional transmission projects and interconnections entered into by the Department of Public Service would be subject to Public Utility Commission approval "which is a public process," the sponsor said, adding that legislative sign‑off would be ill advised but an added transparent PUC review could protect ratepayers.
Committee members recommended inviting VELCO, ISO New England, the Department of Public Service and other transmission experts to brief the committee on technical, cost and reliability implications and to explain how interregional trading and agreements are negotiated. The committee did not take action and asked staff to schedule those witnesses.
