Without question, energy policy and the energy system reliability are preeminent issues of the 21st century; and the impacts of increased energy demand and climate are already having an acute impact on the West. Therefore, our region has significant opportunities to successfully address energy policy issues, help create tens of thousands of well-paid jobs, reduce the cost of energy to drive economic growth, and make progress on air quality and carbon emissions. Thus, there is an urgent need to create the political will and cooperation to advance sound policy decisions.
To address these challenges and opportunities, the Institute is launching the Western Energy Caucus (WEC) – an invitation-only, bipartisan group of leading state policymakers focused on energy policy cooperation.
Proposed areas of focus for the Caucus:
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Grid reliability and resiliency
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Western transmission needs
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Advanced dispatchable electricity generation and storage
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Wildfire mitigation
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Carbon management and sequestration
Through the Institute's managed facilitation, the WEC will support the exchange of ideas and develop state-based legislative solutions to achieve a reliable, low-cost, clean energy system in the West. ​
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How It Will Work
The Institute will invite legislators from the western region with significant interest, involvement, and achievement in energy policy to participate in WEC programming. The WEC will be devoted to educating members on key issues, coordinating information, and encouraging collaboration on policy among Western states.
Caucus members will work to understand the complexities in modernizing our energy system and will value public-private partnership in policy and regulatory discussions. WEC’s 2025 cohort will collaborate to develop strategies and innovative solutions that prioritize grid reliability and connectivity for western states.
Goals of the Western Energy Caucus
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Promote a reliable and affordable energy system in the West
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Examine low-emission energy generation and storage systems
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Support the development of an integrated transmission system
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Advocate for clean, low-cost energy to promote economic growth and job creation in the West
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Expand transmission infrastructure and provide the platform for fair cost allocation
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Develop policy to create a modern energy economy
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Develop best practices, model legislation and siting guidance
Opportunities for Caucus Members
The WEC will offer a number of benefits to caucus members, including:
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Three annual meetings which will include engaging speakers, workshops, panel discussions, and opportunities for collaboration across the region with policy experts and industry leaders.
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June 2025 - International Energy Policy Exchange in Denmark
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September 2025 - Location TBD - Annual Policy Workshop
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December 2025 - Location TBD - Legislative Policy Strategy Session
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Facilitation of regular communication among caucus members to share ideas and draft legislation, including regular in-person or virtual meetings.
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Caucus Member Composition:
Invited states to participate include:
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