Energy Strategies selected to conduct Wyoming electricity transmission study
The Wyoming Energy Authority has selected Energy Strategies, a Utah-based consulting firm, to conduct a statewide electricity transmission planning study. The study, ordered by lawmakers, will evaluate infrastructure gaps and future economic growth scenarios, with data center development cited as a reason for its necessity. The final reports for both phases are expected by March 1, 2027.
The Wyoming Energy Authority (WEA) has contracted Utah-based independent consulting firm Energy Strategies to conduct a comprehensive statewide electricity transmission planning study. This study was mandated by Wyoming lawmakers during the most recent legislative session, citing anticipated industry growth, including a significant influx of data center development, as a key driver for understanding future electricity demand.
The study will proceed in two phases. Phase one involves identifying potential delivery constraints and infrastructure gaps across low, moderate, and high growth scenarios. Phase two will focus on assessing the energy markets Wyoming relies upon, the impact on customers, and projections for future economic growth within the state.
Senator Brian Boner (R-Douglas), who sponsored the enabling legislation, previously highlighted the need to address increased electricity demand from incoming data centers and determine the government's role in managing this growth. The WEA will form an advisory working group, including transmission and energy developers, state agencies, and large-load customers, to provide input on the study's methodology and findings. The study, estimated to cost $200,000, is expected to be finalized by March 1, 2027.