– DOE released a list of 10 potential National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors to accelerate transmission projects
– Minimum eligibility criteria for direct loans under the Transmission Facility Financing program were announced
– The TFF program can finance billions of dollars of transmission projects in designated NIETCs, with public input sought on the list and program application process
The US Department of Energy (DOE) has released a preliminary list of 10 potential National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors (NIETCs) to accelerate the development of transmission projects in areas with an urgent need for expanded transmission. The DOE also announced minimum eligibility criteria for direct loans under the Transmission Facility Financing (TFF) program, which can finance billions of dollars of transmission projects in designated NIETCs. Public input is sought on both the list of potential NIETCs and the TFF program application process.
NIETCs designated by the Secretary of Energy unlock federal financing and permitting tools to spur transmission development and advance national interests. This includes direct loans through the TFF program and partnerships through the Transmission Facilitation Program. DOE’s final guidance on NIETC designation and Phase 2 of the process involve public comments on the geographic boundaries and potential impacts. The TFF program, funded with $2 billion, provides direct loans for eligible projects within a NIETC, and public input is sought on project eligibility and financing requirements.
The preliminary list of potential NIETCs includes areas that can accelerate transmission projects, facilitate renewable energy integration, and increase transmission capacity between Eastern and Western Interconnections. The DOE will prioritize potential NIETCs for Phase 3, which will include environmental reviews, government consultation, and public engagement. Phase 3 is slated to begin in the fall of 2024.