Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB470

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/5/23
• Refer: 10/5/23
• Report Pass: 2/13/24
• Refer: 2/13/24
• Engrossed: 2/15/24
• Refer: 2/19/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

An incumbent transmission facility owner's right to construct, own, and maintain certain transmission facilities and Public Service Commission procedures if the transmission facility is a regionally cost-shared transmission line.

Impact

The bill's provisions are significant as they aim to streamline the process by which incumbent transmission facility owners can move forward with construction projects that have received approval under the MISO plan. Under this bill, owners must provide notice within 90 days of the plan's approval, enhancing accountability in the construction timeline. Furthermore, the bill mandates that any construction cost estimates provided to the PSC must be derived from competitively bid contracts. This aspect is designed to foster a competitive environment within the sector, potentially leading to cost savings for consumers.

Summary

Assembly Bill 470 focuses on the rights of incumbent transmission facility owners regarding the construction, ownership, and maintenance of transmission facilities that are involved in regional cost-sharing agreements under the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) transmission plan. It clarifies that these rights apply to transmission companies, cooperatives, or public utilities that are operating within the state. The bill outlines procedures for the owners to notify the Public Service Commission (PSC) about their intentions concerning the construction and connection of transmission lines.

Contention

However, AB470 exists within a framework of potential contention, as it may raise concerns about who ultimately holds responsibility for the construction of necessary transmission infrastructure. If the incumbent owners choose not to proceed with construction, the bill allows the PSC to decide whether another entity should take on that role. This provision could prompt debate over the implications of accountability and efficiency in the construction of essential electric transmission lines. Additionally, the balance of rights among multiple facility owners, especially regarding the allocation of responsibilities for jointly connected transmission lines, may become an area for further scrutiny.