# California Advances Regional Renewable Transmission

California is actively expanding its renewable energy infrastructure by initiating major interstate electricity transmission projects and enhancing carbon market integration with neighboring states. In September 2026, construction began on the Southwest Intertie Project-North, a **$1 billion** power line that will deliver wind energy from Idaho and Montana to California by 2028. Additionally, a **$1.7 billion** power line project approved in 2026 will connect the Nevada border to Los Angeles, further strengthening regional grid capacity. These efforts support California's goal of achieving 100% renewable and zero-carbon electricity by 2045 and address limitations in in-state renewable resources. The state is also progressing on linking its emissions trading market with Washington to improve carbon market efficiency and drive investment in clean energy.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals should note the significant infrastructure investments and cross-state collaboration that create opportunities for transmission developers, engineering firms, and renewable energy contractors.
- The large-scale power line projects indicate a growing demand for specialized transmission planning, construction, and grid integration services.
- Companies involved in renewable energy and carbon market technologies can leverage California's expanding regional partnerships to position for future contracts.
- Agencies and contractors should consider the timelines, with key projects targeting completion by 2028, to align bidding and resource planning accordingly.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Energy & Utilities
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 23, 2026

### Government Entities
- California Independent System Operator (CAISO)
- Clean Power Alliance
- California Air Resources Board (CARB)
- California Natural Resources Agency

### Vendors
- LS Power (developer)

### Key Quotes
> By joining forces with our partner in Washington State, we will build a stronger, more durable carbon market that will drive investment, cut pollution, and power the clean economy of the future.
> — Gavin Newsom, Governor of California

> There’s some potential for in-state California wind, [but] there’s a lot more potential, and it is a higher-quality wind regime, in other areas.
> — Neil Millar, Vice President of Transmission Planning, CAISO

> For certain things, it’s necessary and valuable to go outside of California.
> — Matthew Langer, COO, Clean Power Alliance

### Sources
- [California needs its neighbors’ renewable energy - POLITICO](https://www.politico.com/newsletters/california-currents/2026/09/23/california-needs-its-neighbors-renewable-energy-01090882) - Politico