PUCT vote marks major step toward a more modern, reliable, and efficient grid

AUSTIN, TX – The Texas Advanced Energy Business Alliance (TAEBA) applauds the Public Utility Commission of Texas’ (PUCT) historic vote to build the state’s first-ever 765-kilovolt (kV) high voltage transmission lines—ushering in a new era of grid modernization for the Lone Star State.  

On April 24, PUCT commissioners approved the construction of high-capacity transmission lines in the Permian Basin—a rapidly growing region central to Texas’ energy economy. The new 765-kV lines will carry more than twice the voltage of existing infrastructure, significantly boosting the efficiency and flexibility of Texas’ electric grid.

“This decision brings ERCOT into the 21st century,” said TAEBA Executive Director Matthew Boms. “As electricity demand surges, we need a grid that’s built for the future—reliable, efficient, and cost-effective. Today’s vote is a strong step toward that goal.”

Beyond higher voltage and improved performance, the new system offers other key benefits. The lines are more adaptable to future demand growth and will affect fewer landowners compared to the traditional transmission option considered by ERCOT. According to ERCOT, the more advanced system is expected to save consumers money over time due to its increased efficiency.

“This high voltage system represents a vital investment in Texas’ continued growth,” Boms added. “People, families, and businesses want to move here—and this infrastructure ensures we can keep up with that momentum.”

The Commission’s decision followed a thorough, months-long review process. PUCT staff evaluated the 765-kV proposal alongside a more conventional expansion of existing 345-kV lines. They conducted three public workshops and gathered stakeholder feedback through three rounds of public comment.

“We and our staff and have answered every possible question we can answer on this decision,” PUCT Chairman Thomas J. Gleeson said. “765-kV is the right answer.”

“This is really exciting for Texas, when you look back on monumental decisions that affects Texas,” Commissioner Kathleen Jackson said. “This will fit in those benchmarks, and we will look back and say this was one of those decisions.”

TAEBA commends the Commission for this bold step and remains committed to supporting infrastructure investments that promote reliability, economic growth, and clean, affordable energy for all Texans.