MT SB301

Public utilities may request a certificate of public convenience and necessity from the Public Service Commission before constructing electric transmission facilities rated above 69 kilovolts, with the commission required to decide within 300 days whether the project is in the public interest.

Advanced transmission technology is defined to include underground cables, advanced composite conductors, high-voltage direct-current technology, flexible AC transmission systems, enhanced power monitoring, and power electronics with real-time monitoring software.

Utilities may apply for advanced cost approval of transmission facilities, with the commission required to determine application adequacy within 45 days and issue an order within 90 days.

If actual construction costs come in at or below commission-approved costs, the utility receives a presumption of prudence in future rate proceedings; costs exceeding approved amounts have no such presumption and require separate commission review.

The act takes effect immediately upon passage and approval, and requires the commission to adopt implementing rules.