Transmission Market Design

Abstract

Coordinated electricity spot markets support open access to existing transmission grids. Associated financial transmission rights provide a key ingredient for long-term contracting and property rights for grid expansion. Design of a mixed system of merchant and regulated transmission investment presents a challenge for regulators and market participants. With the right choice, merchant transmission investment could play a significant but not exclusive role in efficient transmission expansion. With the wrong choice, the unintended consequences could undermine the whole foundation of electricity market restructuring.

Keywords: Business and government policy, Regulation

JEL Classification: O0, O2, N7, Q4