Generation&transmission planning and electricity market: The role of TSO

In a competitive environment the generation and transmission systems planning (GS&TS-P) becomes more complex and needs new approaches, criteria and models. Referring to the attribute named flexibility of the transmission system in respect of generation changes, and to some validated indexes for its evaluation (Uncertainty Scenario Flexibility Indexes - USFI), the author proposes the integration of this attribute in a Generation System-follows-Transmission System planning, stressing the importance of this stage for the Highly Developed Power Systems (HDPS) such as the Italian National Transmission System (INTS).