Summary - Transmission Infrastructure West 2025 (2nd Annual)

Efforts to decarbonize the energy system are placing unprecedented demands ontransmission networks, and nowhere is this more evident than in the Western region of the US. As states across the region pursue ambitious clean energy targets, transmission infrastructure has emerged as both a constraint and a critical enabler of future capacity.

While notable progress has been achieved in expanding renewable energy deployment, insufficient transmission capacity threatens to stall momentum, limit grid reliability, and increase system costs. In response, policymakers, utilities, and grid operators are prioritizing transmission expansion and modernization to meet long-term energy and climate objectives.

Recent developments, such as permitting reforms, a heightened focus on interregional coordination, and evolving utility planning frameworks, have created a more supportive environment for transmission infrastructure development. However, the pace of implementation remains slow to meet the region’s growing needs. Moreover, as extreme weather events become more frequent and load growth accelerates, the consequences are becoming more acute, both economically and operationally. Without coordinated action and sustained investment, the region risks missing out on billions in potential savings and delaying the deployment of essential clean energy infrastructure.

Recognizing the need to expedite progress, Global Transmission Report is pleased to announce the 2nd edition of its Transmission Infrastructure West conference on November 18-19, 2025, at The Westin San Francisco Airport. This conference, tailored to the unique geographic, regulatory, and political contexts of the Western region, will provide an opportunity for focused, solutions-oriented discussions on strengthening and scaling the region’s transmission system.

This year’s program will center on core areas such as transmission and interconnection priorities; regional coordination and planning alignment; permitting, siting, and community engagement; system modernization; addressing climate-related challenges; and strategies for building future-ready infrastructure.

The conference will bring together policymakers, regulators, utilities, RTOs/ISOs, developers, investors, and technology providers to assess current efforts, identify persistent challenges, and explore implementable strategies to accelerate transmission development. Participants will engage with decision-makers shaping the Western grid, share lessons from recent initiatives, and evaluate practical solutions to improve grid flexibility, reliability, and resilience. This timely gathering offers an opportunity to align on the next steps and advance the infrastructure needed to support a clean energy future across the Western states.