Richard Maguire

I am a senior electrical engineer at ECI, specializing in load and generation interconnections and NERC compliance within the WECC and SPP regions. Since 2012, my transmission planning experience at Avista, Grant, and now ECI has centered on integrating large renewable energy projects and data center loads into the transmission grid. I place strong emphasis on the application of NERC standards and the principles of good utility practice in system studies. My background in the nuclear Navy instilled in me the understanding that adherence to standards need not be burdensome; rather, their careful consideration can be essential to safety and efficiency. Consequently, I adopt a pragmatic approach to regulatory compliance. Additionally, I advocate for continual improvement in system study methodologies, recognizing that established practices may not always yield optimal results. For those seeking efficient and clear solutions to interconnection studies and managing extensive queues, I welcome discussion on effective alternatives to conventional methods.