Oklahoma lawmakers are examining whether new technologies can help existing power lines carry more electricity as demand grows across the state.
Rep. Nick Archer and Sen. Casey Murdock requested the interim study, which brought utilities, energy experts and regional grid planners to the State Capitol.
The discussion focused on ways to improve grid capacity and reliability while weighing costs to customers and the need for new transmission lines.
“This study wasn’t about reaching a predetermined conclusion,” Archer said. “It was about understanding what technologies are available, how they’re being evaluated today and what technical, economic or regulatory barriers may affect their use.”
Murdock said proposed transmission projects have repeatedly prompted eminent domain disputes in his district. He sees opportunities to improve the grid while reducing the need for large new power lines.
Utility representatives said they already use technologies that help control electricity flows and make better use of existing lines. They cautioned, however, that those tools cannot replace new construction in every situation.
Adam Snapp, director of transmission planning for OG&E, said rebuilding can be the most economical option when existing structures are aging or larger power lines are needed.
“GETs (Grid Enhancing Technology) and traditional transmission are not competitors,” said Jeffrey Ellis, director of distribution planning for Public Service Company of Oklahoma.
Regional and federal energy officials also described the challenge of meeting rising demand when major transmission projects can take years to complete.
Archer and Murdock authored House Bill 3183, the GET Over Congestion Act, last session. The proposal would have required utilities to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of advanced transmission and grid-enhancing technologies to address bottlenecks in the electric system.
