How can permitting processes be simplified without changing the regulation?
In this webinar, Swissgrid and Gilytics presented how transmission line projects can be planned and assessed using a joint, standardized framework developed together with regulatory authorities.
By aligning early on data, criteria, and assessment logic — and operationalizing this approach with Pathfinder — Swissgrid has significantly reduced coordination effort and accelerated permitting processes.
Webinar Highlights
- Joint definition of GIS data layers and their relative importance
- Lifecycle cost and CO₂ footprint assessment per routing option
- Transparent comparison of alternatives
- Structured validation process with environmental and energy authorities
- Reduced project-by-project alignment and faster approvals
Who Attended
More than 90 professionals joined the session, including representatives from:
- Transmission System Operators (TSOs)
- Distribution System Operators (DSOs)
- Engineering and consulting firms
- Construction companies
Participants joined from across Europe, as well as Canada, the USA, and Chile — highlighting the global relevance of the topic.
Key Takeaways from the Audience
The challenges described by Swissgrid strongly resonated with participants. Many acknowledged experiencing similar issues in their own planning and permitting processes.
In a live poll, attendees identified the main benefits of a shared assessment framework as:
- Significantly faster project and permitting timelines
- More predictable approval outcomes
- Improved internal and external transparency
- Reduced iteration and coordination effort
The discussion confirmed that the bottleneck in infrastructure projects is often not regulation itself — but the lack of a shared, transparent assessment logic across stakeholders.
Watch the Recording
If you were unable to attend or would like to revisit the session, you can request access to the webinar recording.
