A strong transmission grid is vital to Rhode Island's safety, security and economic prosperity. Electric system reliability in Rhode Island is currently very dependent upon limited 345-kV transmission.

• Imports of electricity into Rhode Island are limited now
• Without the project, electricity imports would become more limited in the future.
• Import constraints limit access to broader electricity markets.
• Under certain conditions, the state can experience overloads and voltage problems.
• In a worst-case scenario, much of the state could be exposed to widespread interruptions in electric service.

The Rhode Island Reliability Project and the three other interdependent 345 kV transmission projects improve east-west movement of electricity within New England. One of the other three projects, the Interstate Reliability Project, strengthens interstate transfer among Connecticut, Rhode Island and Massachusetts and improves electric reliability in all three states.