Assessment and Expansion of Florida's Electric Transmission System: Ensuring Grid Reliability, Resilience, and Cost-Effectiveness

This research evaluates Florida's electric transmission system as the state undergoes rapid growth in solar generation, increasing electrification, and shifting load patterns. We compiled detailed data on generation assets, transmission lines, historical demand, and emerging technologies such as battery storage and electric vehicle charging. Using these data, we developed a realistic power system planning model capable of analyzing long-term expansion needs under FERC Order 1920 and various resilience scenarios. The model incorporates uncertainty in generation projects and demand growth through stochastic optimization, allowing practical and insightful evaluation and operational performance during stressed conditions over the 10 year site plan. Across the scenarios examined, we identify emerging transmission constraints, quantifies the cost and reliability implications of extreme weather events, and explore the benefits of expansion choices including dynamic line rating, advanced power flow controller, and building new connections. The findings provide practical guidance for cost-effective transmission development that supports continued clean-energy expansion while maintaining the reliability and resilience of Florida's power grid.