Grid West: An Assessment of the Proposed Governance Structure

The nation’s electric power system has been subject to increasing stress in recent years. One response has been the development of regional solutions for improving transmission reliability and efficiency.

For more than a decade, the Northwest region has discussed different approaches for consolidating and integrating operation of its electric transmission grid. Stakeholders currently are considering forming an independent entity—Grid West—to operate a consolidated electric transmission grid for the Northwest region. Changes to this grid could affect the region’s stakeholders differently. Not surprisingly, there are divergent and deeply held views about the merits of any specific reform proposal.

Because of these concerns, the Bonneville Power Administration asked the Academy to convene a Panel to assess the proposed governance structure for Grid West. This Panel report contains recommendations to strengthen Grid West’s accountability, improve its workability and provide more effective mechanisms for controlling costs.