– California announces new grid upgrade package worth $6 billion
– 26 new grid projects recommended, including connecting offshore wind projects
– Plan aims to help meet clean energy goals and accommodate renewable power challenges.
California has announced a $6 billion grid upgrade package recommended by the Independent System Operator (ISO) to accommodate new clean energy connections to the state’s grid. The package includes 26 new grid projects, with a significant portion allocated to connecting offshore wind projects off the North Coast. The plan aims to address the challenges of incorporating renewable power into the grid and meeting clean energy goals, including adding 85GW of clean energy generation by 2023. The plan also includes recommendations for geothermal development and battery energy storage systems in key areas like the LA Basin, Bay Area, and San Diego.
The grid upgrade projects are seen as crucial for helping California transition to increased renewable generation and achieving its clean energy objectives. The ISO’s focus on planning and resource procurement aims to expedite the development of transmission lines and ensure cost-effective implementation of the upgrades. The plan represents the initial steps towards utilizing offshore wind resources and strengthening California’s grid infrastructure to support the state’s shift towards cleaner energy sources.