FERC orders MISO to clarify how merchant projects will be included in transmission planning

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has directed the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) to clarify its procedures for incorporating merchant transmission projects into its regional planning process. This order stems from a complaint filed by Invenergy regarding the treatment of its Grain Belt Express project, highlighting that MISO's current tariff is ambiguous concerning how these self-funded projects are integrated and studied. FERC emphasized the necessity for MISO to provide a clear mechanism for independent projects that do not seek cost allocation through MISO's traditional cycles. The agency requires MISO to demonstrate that its planning framework does not unfairly impede the development of projects crucial for interregional power flow and renewable energy integration.