Approved Transmission Line Will Unlock More Nevada Energy Resources

CARSON CITY, NV - December 24, 2014

The California Independent System Operator (ISO) Board of Governors approved funds to build a strategically vital power transmission line in Clark County.

The Harry Allen – Eldorado 500kV Transmission Project is a 60 mile extension of One Nevada Line that will connect the Nevada transmission system to California’s power grid. The increased connectivity is expected to strengthen grid reliability and improve the integration of Nevada’s renewable energy resources.

“This is an excellent example of a project that provides mutual benefits for Nevada and California, two states that share significant renewable energy resources and economic ties,” stated Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval. “I support and encourage solutions like this that provide value for our state and open opportunities for additional renewable energy development.”

According to a California ISO memorandum about the Harry Allen – Eldorado Transmission Project, the expected benefits will originate from energy production and capacity cost savings provided by access to out-of-state generation. The project will allow for an additional 200 megawatts of power to flow between Nevada and the Desert Southwest to California.

“I encourage developers with renewable energy projects to consider Nevada as a place to do business,” said Paul Thomsen, Director of the Governor’s Office of Energy. “The Harry Allen – Eldorado Transmission Project will greatly expand their ability to sell power to consumers who need it.” The California ISO will begin its competitive solicitation process to build the line in early 2015.

The California ISO decision to fund construction of the Harry Allen – Eldorado project is the latest in a series of transmission milestones that benefited Nevada in 2014. In January, energy industry leaders celebrated the completion of One Nevada Transmission Line, a 231-mile line that connected NV Energy’s northern and southern service areas for the first time. NV Energy received regulatory approvals to participate in an Energy Imbalance Market with six western states, allowing Nevada to optimize resources across a wide geographic area, share excess power, and purchase inexpensive power that would otherwise go unused. This is expected to begin in the fall of 2015.

These milestones highlight Nevada’s role as a leader in the advancement of a clean and modern electric grid. They complement the GOE mission to facilitate cooperation between key stakeholders and collaborate with regional partners to ensure a reliable and sustainable energy system.

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About the Governor's Office of Energy

The Governor’s Office of Energy oversees energy programs required through statute and those that help to meet the mission of the office, which is to ensure the wise development of Nevada’s energy resources in harmony with local community economic needs and Nevada natural resources. For more information about GOE, please visit energy.nv.gov.

About the California ISO

The California ISO provides open and non-discriminatory access to one of the largest power grids in the world. The vast network of high-voltage transmission power lines is supported by a competitive energy market and comprehensive grid planning. Partnering with a hundred clients, the nonprofit public benefit corporation is dedicated to the continual development and reliable operation of a modern grid that operates for the benefit of consumers. Recognizing the importance of the global climate challenge, the ISO is at the forefront of integrating renewable power and advanced technologies that will help meet a sustainable energy future efficiently and cleanly. For more information about the California ISO, please visit

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Kayla Meyer
Public Information Officer

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