Despite progressive climate policies, Oregon and Washington trail behind other states in renewable energy expansion due to grid infrastructure limitations. An investigation by ProPublica and Oregon Public Broadcasting revealed that the region lacks the necessary wiring to deliver new renewable energy sources to homes. The Bonneville Power Administration, responsible for most of the power lines in the region, has been slow in upgrading the nearly century-old grid infrastructure.
Efforts to bypass Bonneville through state bonding authorities for grid improvements have stalled. The severe constraints on the grid hinder the region’s ability to meet electricity demands, leading to high prices and potential power outages. Bonneville’s approach to financing new transmission lines and substations is more restrictive compared to other regions, delaying numerous renewable projects.
David Brown, an energy developer, exemplifies the challenges faced in launching a solar farm in southern Oregon, where connection approval is expected no earlier than 2028. Bonneville’s interconnection studies have seen cost estimates increase significantly over time, complicating project feasibility.
The Northwest’s transmission challenges highlight the need for innovative solutions to meet renewable energy goals amidst growing electricity demands.
— new from ProPublica