A strong, flexible transmission system that is capable of coping with a wide variety of system conditions is key for the reliable supply and delivery of electricity. NERC has a long history of highlighting the need for more infrastructure, including transmission and pipelines, in its reliability assessments as the independent voice for reliability.
NERC is conducting the Interregional Transfer Capability Study that will analyze the amount of power that can be moved or transferred reliably from one area to another area of the interconnected transmission systems. The study will be conducted in consultation with the six Regional Entities and each transmitting utility in neighboring transmission planning regions.
Transfer capability is a critical measure of the ability to address energy deficiencies by relying on distant resources and is a key component of a reliable and resilient bulk power system. Recent and continuing resource mix changes require greater access and deliverability of resources to maintain reliability—particularly during extreme weather and environmental conditions.
The study, which was directed in the
Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, must be filed with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission by
December 2, 2024. A public comment period will take place when FERC publishes the study in the Federal Register. After submittal, FERC must provide a report to Congress within 12 months of closure of the public comment period with recommendations (if any) for statutory changes.
Canadian Analysis – Interregional Transfer Capability Study
While the ITCS included transfer analysis from Canada into United States, transfers from United States into Canada were not studied. NERC is therefore undertaking an analysis of transfer capabilities from the United States to Canada and between Canadian provinces to ensure a complete view of North American transfer capability.
Transfer capability is a critical measure of the ability to address energy deficiencies by relying on distant resources and is a key component of a reliable and resilient bulk power system. Recent and continuing resource mix changes require greater access and deliverability of resources to maintain reliability—particularly during extreme weather and environmental conditions.
The analysis will be conducted in consultation with the six Regional Entities, the Canadian Analysis Advisory Group and Canadian Planning Coordinators and will be published in the first quarter of 2025.
For any questions, please contact the
ITCS Project Team.
