In a recent trend, Democrats are shifting their approach to environmental politics by embracing once-taboo solutions like nuclear power, lithium mining for batteries, denser housing, and now, giant power lines in order to reduce the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels. This shift is evident in the approval of projects like the SunZia transmission line project, a 550-mile wind and transmission project in New Mexico championed by Sen. Martin Heinrich.
Giant transmission lines are now being viewed as essential arteries of the electrical system, necessary for connecting renewable energy sources like wind and solar farms located far from population centers to support the expansion of clean energy. This shift in mindset is also reflected in the recent finalization of a rule by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission requiring grid operators to plan for long-term transmission needs.
The momentum for supporting transmission line projects is growing in Washington, with House Democrats proposing legislation to streamline permitting requirements for such projects in order to accelerate development and improve the aging grid infrastructure. This legislation is part of a broader permitting reform bill introduced by Senators Joe Manchin and John Barrasso.
Environmental groups and progressive lawmakers have pushed back against permitting reform that also relaxes rules on fossil fuel infrastructure. However, the overwhelming support for the transmission part of the bill among Democrats suggests a significant shift in policy priorities towards cleaner energy solutions. This growing awareness of the importance of expanded infrastructure to support clean energy development and address increasing power demand is driving the shift in environmental politics towards embracing transmission lines as a critical component of the nation’s energy future.
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