Western Transmission Consortium Launches Major Southwest Project for Future Electric Grid Development

Western Transmission Consortium Launches Southwest Project

On May 6, 2025, the Western Transmission Consortium (TWTC) announced the official launch of its much-anticipated Southwest Project. This newly formed, member-owned organization is determined to revolutionize interregional transmission infrastructure across the Western United States, specifically focusing on improving the functionality and reliability of the electric grid.

TWTC has united 84 founding members representing various utilities spread across eleven Western states, marking a significant step towards achieving a coordinated and resilient energy framework. With a shared mission to streamline operations and enhance collaboration among utilities, the consortium aims to meet the increasing energy demands of the West while facilitating the integration of renewable resources into the electric grid.

The transition of TWTC from its initial development phase to active operations comes on the heels of successful governance, budgeting, and project planning milestones. One of the crucial elements of this new phase is the Southwest Curation Process, the kickoff of which took place during TWTC's first in-person meeting on April 25, 2025. During this assembly, founding members discussed project selection strategies and how these align with both state and federal energy planning goals, signaling a future-oriented approach to energy management.

As part of its strategic agenda, TWTC is honing in on nine individual projects that encompass approximately 1,100 miles across five Southwestern states. This ambitious initiative is expected to set the groundwork for a more interconnected and efficient transmission network.

Leaders Share Their Enthusiasm
Chris Hansen, the CEO of the La Plata Electric Association (LPEA), expressed his excitement about the Southwest Project, mentioning, "TWTC has effectively gathered a diverse group of stakeholders to address the hurdles the West has faced in developing interregional transmission. This initiative reflects our commitment to delivering tangible benefits to our members."

Additionally, Don Tarry, President and CEO of PNM, also recognized the urgent need for collaborative transmission development. “We need a cohesive approach not just in New Mexico, but across the entire region to ensure reliable and cost-effective solutions for our customers,” he noted, commending the creation of the consortium and his eagerness to contribute to these collective efforts.

The next stage for TWTC involves launching a Northwest Curation Pod in June. This upcoming initiative will work to prioritize significant transmission projects in that part of the country, thereby extending the consortium's reach and influence.

Paul Kjellander, the Board President of TWTC and an industry veteran with 30 years of experience in energy policy, remarked on the extraordinary potential of the consortium. He stated, “The establishment of TWTC marks a pivotal advancement in both policy and operational aspects of transmission development in the West. We are immensely proud of being part of this transformative endeavor.”

With the Southwest Curation Process currently underway and the promising future projects ahead, TWTC stands as a beacon of hope for a more sustainable and effective energy landscape in the Western United States. For further details about TWTC, its members, and ongoing initiatives, interested parties can reach out via email at [email protected] or visit their official website at www.westerntransco.com.