Texas House Bill HB3344

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to a study to project the economic and grid reliability effects that may result from interconnecting certain electric transmission facilities with transmission facilities operated by the Midcontinent Independent System Operator.

Impact

If enacted, HB3344 not only provides a pathway for academic inquiry into how interconnecting these transmission facilities could affect local and regional energy dynamics but also serves a practical purpose by potentially enhancing the reliability of energy supply by connecting to the broader MISO network. The findings derived from the study are expected to inform the legislature and local governance on energy policy decisions, especially in relation to energy procurement and infrastructure investments.

Summary

House Bill 3344 seeks to initiate a study focused on the economic and grid reliability impacts resulting from the interconnection of specific electric transmission facilities in Harris County with those operated by the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO). The bill mandates that the University of Houston undertake this study, facilitated by an entity designated by the university's president. The intended study aims to evaluate not only the interconnection of transmission facilities but also the implications of allowing wholesale power purchases in Harris County through MISO's market framework.

Contention

Although there were no overtly contentious discussions captured around HB3344, concerns may arise regarding the methodology of the study, especially regarding how economic and reliability metrics are defined and measured. Stakeholders in the energy sector might debate the appropriateness of the study's focus or the selection of the University of Houston as the conducting entity. Moreover, regional stakeholders in Harris County may also have differing opinions about how the proposed interconnections might affect local energy markets and rates.