California gives nod to 3.2-GW power transmission link project

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has given unanimous approval to the Ten West Link high-voltage transmission link project in the US Desert Southwest region, progressing a plan to make available more renewable energy and energy storage resources in Arizona and California.

The CPUC last Thursday issued a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity for the construction and operation of the Ten West Link, investment firm Starwood Energy Group Global LLC announced on Monday. The project is sponsored by Starwood affiliate DCR Transmission LLC (DCRT).

Once it enters operation in 2023 as scheduled, Ten West Link will have the capacity to transmit 3,200 MW between central Arizona and southern California. The transmission asset will become part of the California grid, which is managed by the California Independent System Operator Corporation (CAISO).

"This milestone approval by the CPUC builds on more than five years of collaborative effort with individuals, businesses, state and federal agencies, and other stakeholders," Starwood Energy CEO Himanshu Saxena said.

DCRT won the auction to develop the transmission link in 2015.

Choose your newsletter by Renewables Now. Join for free!