The Wyoming Energy Authority (WEA) today released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for qualified consultants to conduct a comprehensive statewide electricity transmission planning study.

The Wyoming Electricity Transmission Study, required under SF0102, Enrolled Act No. 50 passed by the Wyoming Legislature in 2026, will evaluate Wyoming’s existing electric transmission system and identify strategic opportunities for future transmission development. The study is intended to inform long-term infrastructure planning by evaluating future load growth, economic development and reliable energy delivery, and potential transmission needs across the state.

The selected consultant will inventory Wyoming’s existing transmission system, including, at a minimum: 

• Transmit lines of 69kV or greater
• Major substations
• Ownership information
• Known constraints
• Operational limitations and planned additions, upgrades or retirements

The study will also model Wyoming’s current system under low, moderate and high load-growth scenarios to:

• Identify delivery constraints and congestion points
• Evaluate advanced transmission technologies
• Produce a gap analysis showing where the system may fall short under future demand scenarios

The study will include a qualitative market participation assessment reviewing regional transmission organizations, independent system operators, day-ahead markets, real-time markets and bilateral market structures affecting Wyoming utilities.

A key component of the project will be stakeholder engagement. The consultant will assist WEA in establishing an advisory working group with representatives from Wyoming electric utilities, transmission developers, state agencies, energy developers, large-load customers, and other interested groups. The working group will advise on study methodology, assumptions and findings throughout the process.

Proposals will be evaluated based on relevant experience, technical approach, project team and cost. WEA is seeking consultants with demonstrated experience conducting transmission studies, particularly in the western United States.

The RFP is available at wyoenergy.org/grants. Proposals are due by August 9, 2026. WEA anticipates selecting a consultant by August 19, 2026, with project kickoff scheduled for September 1, 2026. The final Phase I and Phase II report is expected by March 1, 2027.

Questions about the RFP should be directed to John Jenks, WEA Director of Energy Market Development, at john.jenks1@wyo.gov.