The operator of New York’s electric grid says the grid will need new power plants and distribution lines to meet its needs…and for the next decade it faces “thinning reliability margins” in its ability to supply customers’ peak electric demands.
The New York Independent System Operator says the state also remains dependent on neighboring states to meet those peak loads pending new generating capacity over the next decade. The NYSIO reports on the system’s reliability every two years. It says it’s putting increased effort into monitoring changes in energy demand, extreme weather and public policy.
Gas fired generating plants are being phased out over the coming decade, but electrification is still progressing. The two will begin to drive the state’s ability to avoid blackouts or brownouts to dangerously tight margins as early as next year. The state will increase its purchases of power from the outside markets to compensate.
For the next ten years the system operator says the electric grid will be reliable in winter. Beyond that, it’s a question of moving forward with new generating capacity and more modern transmission lines.