Transmission modernization study

(a) In general A transmission provider subject to transmission planning required by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission issuances including Order No. 1920, as modified or clarified by Order Nos. 1920-A and 1920-B, may, during each transmission planning process as required under such orders, conduct a transmission modernization study that evaluates the extent to which a right-of-way optimization project or reconductoring project may result in economic and grid reliability benefits. (b) Requirements In the event a transmission provider conducts a study under subsection (a), the transmission provider shall, in conducting such study— (1) describe in such study— (A) the extent to which right-of-way optimization or reconductoring projects have been evaluated to address congestion, capacity constraints, reliability risks, or resilience needs; (B) how implementing such projects compares to other transmission projects that address congestion, capacity constraints, reliability risks, or resilience needs; and (C) the potential economic and grid reliability benefits from implementing such projects; and (2) consider risks relating to natural hazards and extreme weather events relevant to the applicable right-of-way, including wildfire, heat, storm, or icing risk information consistent with existing resilience planning practices. (c) Submission and publication A transmission provider that conducts a study under subsection (a) shall submit to the Secretary the results of such study, and make such results publicly available, except for information designated as critical electric infrastructure information, pursuant to section 215A of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 824o–1).