Conclusion
New England’s electric power grid is undergoing rapid change. Uncertainties related to the pace and scale of reductions in carbon emissions, growth in electricity demand, and increases in renewable resources and battery storage are just some of the variables that pose challenges now and into the future.
As complex as the challenges are, ISO New England has made tremendous progress in identifying them and taking steps to help the region chart a path forward. We believe we have a blueprint outlining the key components needed to maintain a reliable, cost-effective grid now and in the decades to come, and we have developed innovative tools that will help the region make it a reality. Forward-looking analyses like the CELT Report and our economic studies allow us to anticipate a range of possibilities far into the future. Our multi-year roadmap prioritizes projects designed to support the region’s grid through the uncertainty of the next five to 10 years, while providing space to pivot if necessary.
Importantly, these tools allow us to adapt our assumptions as we learn more, taking new information into account — similar to how navigation apps recalculate a route to consider road construction or traffic. For example, PEAT can help the region maintain reliability by providing situational awareness regarding energy adequacy amid an evolving resource mix. And improvements in the economic study process and CELT methodologies have refined our view of the coming decades. With continued innovation, our view will become even clearer.
Our focus remains on ensuring the power system is reliable and cost-effective, and that the wholesale electricity markets continue to support the existing resource fleet while keeping pace with new, more efficient technologies and industry advances. This Regional Electricity Outlook has outlined the major priorities and activities that are designed to enhance existing ISO systems, practices, and services to New England. It underscores the ISO’s continued focus on innovation and collaboration with stakeholders and public officials, which is crucial to realizing a shared vision for the future.
We’re confident that, together, we can achieve the right balance of resources and policies to support reliability and affordability for New England through the decades ahead.