"The #US can’t afford to take 12 years to [#TransmissionLines] given the growing need for more #energy infrastructure, Armistead said.

He pointed to Europe and China, where billions of dollars are being invested in new high-voltage lines to connect power plants to cities where demand is high.

While rerouting the line around sensitive areas in New Mexico took more time and money, Armistead said he believed it was the right thing to do."

#SunZia
https://apnews.com/article/renewable-energy-line-sunzia-arizona-california-a541af36657a299a1a0822e75f943b9f

Powered by wind, this $10B transmission line will carry more energy than the Hoover Dam

Executives with one of the largest wind and solar energy development companies in the world are gathering with federal officials on the dusty plains of New Mexico to mark the groundbreaking of what will be the largest renewable energy infrastructure project in the United States. The SunZia transmission line will stretch about 550 miles from central New Mexico, funneling electricity from massive wind farms to metro areas in Arizona and California. Siting and permitting have taken years. Now construction is beginning, with the system to come online in 2026. Advocates say it will be a key artery in the Biden administration’s plan for boosting renewables and improving reliability among the nation's power grids.

AP News

"#Sunzia and #TransWest were both granted FAST-41 status, a 2015 federal initiative to streamline approvals of critical infrastructure."

Going forward:
"#US lawmakers are seeking to pass a bill that sets a minimum requirement for grid capacity between regions within a set timeframe.

The #BigWires bill would require power networks to have interregional grid capacity equivalent to at least 30% of peak electricity demand, a threshold subject to data review."

#ElectricGrid
https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/us-regulator-urged-enforce-grid-build-senators-apply-pressure-2023-08-25/

US regulator urged to enforce grid build as Senators apply pressure

Wind and solar deployment must accelerate to meet President Biden's target of a decarbonised power sector by 2035 but a lack of long-distance grid capacity is holding back growth.

Reuters
@CelloMomOnCars However, did not re-route around sensitive area in AZ. Another nail in the coffin of the San Pedro River Watershed.