Nevada Governor Gibbons Releases Report On Renewable Energy Transmission Access

January 24, 2008 -- Carson City — Nevada Governor Jim Gibbons today released the Phase 1 report prepared by the Renewable Energy Transmission Access Advisory Committee (RETAAC). The Governor created this advisory committee in May 2007 to identify potential development locations for renewable energy and assess existing and planned transmission access to these resources. He also charged the committee to make recommendations for additional transmission lines, so that we can work towards setting the infrastructure and bring our renewable energy resources to the market place.

“Increased renewable energy development will be the key that frees Nevada of its dependence on imported energy,” said Governor Gibbons.

Nevada currently spends over $6 billion dollars a year on imported energy including electricity, natural gas, and transportation fuel.

“Identifying and developing transmission lines that can assist our energy producers in bringing renewable resources to the marketplace is critical for the successful development of Nevada’s natural resources,” said Governor’s Energy advisor, Dr. Hatice Gecol.

The Phase 1 report identifies twelve wind zones, four solar zones, six geothermal zones, and four biomass zones for potential commercial development. Following an assessment of current transmission grid access, the committee also made recommendations for construction of transmission lines and collector systems that will enable access for renewable energy development in each of the identified Renewable Energy Zones. This will include expansion of the transmission line to connect Nevada’s northern and southern electric grids.

“This comprehensive report is a significant step toward establishing Nevada’s energy independence. We have an abundance of renewable resources throughout the state, but without access, we are limited in our ability deliver energy to consumers. Thanks to the hard work of this advisory committee, we are well on our way to providing sound solutions that will make energy independence a reality,” Governor Gibbons added.

“This report represents the very significant work product of this group of dedicated and talented professionals. I want to thank Governor Gibbons for his vision of a renewable energy future for Nevada,” said Chairman Dan Schochet, Vice president of Ormat.

Source: Nevada Governor