Evolution of Global Electricity Markets

Chapter 11

From the Brink of Abyss to a Green, Clean, and Smart Future

The Evolution of California’s Electricity Market

Lorenzo Kristov and Stephen Keehn,    Department of Market and Infrastructure Policy, California Independent System Operator

1 Introduction

California Independent System Operator (CAISO) is a balancing authority area and operator of wholesale spot markets that encompass most but not all of California. Figure 11.1 provides a schematic of the CAISO footprint, the major transmission lines, and key quantitative facts about CAISO markets and infrastructure. In January 2013, the Valley Electric Association in southwestern Nevada joined CAISO and became its first non-California participating transmission owner.

Figure 11.1 Overview ...