PSE joins Markets+ regional energy market

Decision supports clean energy goals, provides flexibility to adapt to future energy challenges.

Bellevue, Washington (5/12/2025) PSE has signed an agreement to participate in the Southwest Power Pool’s (SPP) Markets+ day-ahead market, a regional energy marketplace for buying and selling electricity. PSE reached the decision following a comprehensive market analysis, identifying Markets+ as the preferred market design that offers durable benefits for customers and maximizes operational efficiency.

The decision was further strengthened by Bonneville Power Administration's (BPA) recently announced decision to participate in Markets+, a crucial development enabling PSE to fully leverage the benefits of this new market structure, given the interconnected nature of its electric transmission operations with BPA in the Pacific Northwest.

“As BPA's largest transmission customer, this coordination can deliver substantial operational efficiencies and cost benefits for our customers,” said Josh Jacobs, PSE’s Vice President of Clean Energy Strategy and Planning. “This collaborative approach allows us to actively participate in the market's development while preserving our ability to serve our customers' specific needs.”

PSE's decision to participate in the Markets+ regional energy market represents a strategic positioning within the evolving Western market landscape, as the utility sector moves toward more integrated regional markets. The program's member-driven governance structure was a crucial factor in the decision, as it ensures PSE can appropriately represent the needs of its Washington customers within a broader market footprint as market rules evolve.

Markets+ also enhances PSE’s capability to meet clean energy targets through improved renewable integration across a broader geographic area. By participating in this regional market, it can more effectively manage and integrate renewable resources, supporting commitments to a sustainable energy future. Additionally, the program strengthens resource adequacy through regional coordination, allowing for more efficient use of existing resources and improved reliability for customers.

This regional coordination across a broad geographic footprint is expected to unlock significant market efficiencies, improve grid reliability and deliver more affordable energy to consumers. PSE looks forward to working with SPP and other regional participants through Phase 2 development and toward market implementation.

Media Contact:

Melanie Coon, 888-831-7250, psenewsroom@pse.com