Asset Condition is Moving Into the Spotlight

Aging infrastructure is putting more attention on how transmission investments are reviewed.

As utilities replace aging equipment and plan system upgrades, asset condition projects are becoming a larger part of transmission investment discussions. These projects are often needed to maintain safe and reliable service, but they also raise important questions about oversight, cost, timing, and long-term system value.

Utility Dive recently reported that ISO-NE will review “asset condition” transmission projects under a proposal filed at FERC. The article notes that these projects are chosen and built by transmission owners, mainly to replace aging infrastructure, and have been a source of concern for New England states and ratepayer advocates: https://www.utilitydive.com/news/iso-ne-asset-condition-transmission-projects-blumenthal-eversource-ferc/828124/

For utilities, this points to a broader planning challenge. Asset replacement is not only about fixing what is old. It also requires a clear view of condition, risk, cost, reliability need, and how each project fits into long-term system priorities.

When asset condition projects move through planning and review, utilities need stronger ways to explain why investments are needed, compare priorities, and show how proposed work supports customers and the grid.

Clearer asset planning can help utilities connect infrastructure condition with investment timing, regulatory review, and future system needs.