ERCOT CEO Pablo Vegas says the grid operator’s proposal to build more than $30 billion of extra-high-voltage transmission infrastructure is part of a “new era in planning” and just an incremental step from its normal practices.

SPP’s Board of Directors approved eight short-term reliability projects, a $3.15 billion package with immediate transmission needs for this year through 2028.

SPP is considering a 765-kV solution and several 500-kV proposals in its Permian Basin footprint in Texas and New Mexico as it dabbles with extra-high-voltage transmission lines.

Texas regulators rejected an ERCOT protocol change that took months of sometimes contentious negotiations before the grid operator’s staff and stakeholders could reach a compromise that earned board approval.

SPP CEO Barbara Sugg warned the RTO’s board and stakeholders that the grid operator faces new and stronger headwinds, even as it met its corporate goals’ first-quarter milestones.

Xcel Energy says its “significant progress” on what it calls “industry-leading clean energy transition plans" will required $34-44 billion in investments through 2028.

Three weeks after it was unable to agree on a recommended developer for a competitive upgrade in New Mexico, SPP’s Board of Directors endorsed an industry expert panel’s initial direction.

SPP’s Board of Directors rejected an industry panel’s recommendation to award a competitive project in New Mexico, leaving staff and members unsure of next steps.

FERC denied Tenaska’s rehearing request over alleged curtailment of its Clear Creek Wind Farm, maintaining the company did not provide sufficient evidence.

Texas regulators have approved a settlement that clears the way for Lubbock Power & Light to migrate from SPP into ERCOT and begin offering retail choice.