4/20/2017

- Independent experts confirm a solution is needed

Studies by nationally-recognized experts have come to the same conclusion: Energize Eastside is needed. The project’s infrastructure upgrades will accommodate local population and economic growth, while avoiding the need to plan for power outages in the very near future.

In addition to PSE’s transmission planning studies, independent consultants hired by City of Bellevue and the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) Team have also confirmed the need for the project. Excerpts from their reports are listed below.

Bellevue’s independent expert, Utility System Efficiencies, Inc. (USE), stated:

  • Is the EE project needed to address the reliability of the electric grid on the Eastside? YES.
  • If the load growth rate was reduced, would the project still be needed?  YES.
  • If generation was increased in the Puget Sound area, would the project still be needed? YES.
  • Is there a need for the project to address regional flows, with imports/exports to Canada (ColumbiaGrid)? Modeling zero flow to Canada, the project is still necessary to address local need.

Independent Technical Analysis of Energize Eastside, by Utility Systems Efficiencies, Inc., April 28, 2015

The EIS subcontractor, Stantec, stated:

“Based on my expertise, I found that the PSE needs assessment was overall very thorough and applied methods considered to be the industry standard for planning of this nature. Based on the information that the needs assessment contains, I concur with the conclusion that there is a transmission capacity deficiency in PSE’s system on the Eastside that requires attention in the near future.” - Review Memo by Stantec Consulting Services, Inc., July 31, 2015

Additionally, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has weighed in on the subject. FERC rejected the assumptions and conclusions the project’s opposition argued in their complaint to FERC.

FERC, in rejecting these conclusions, stated:

“Contrary to Complainants’ vague allegations that the Respondents have violated [Federal transmission planning regulations], the record before us shows that [PSE] and the other Respondents have complied with the applicable transmission planning requirements.” - Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Oct. 21, 2015

To learn more about project need, take a look at the Eastside Need and Solution.