the briefing coincided with the release of a new report, the potential rate effects of wind energy and transmission in the midwest iso region, commissioned by the energy future coalition and produced by synapse energy economics, which concludes that adding more wind power to the midwest’s grid would place downward pressure on energy market prices and rates, even after factoring in the costs of the additional transmission needed to connect it. traditional power plants face fuel prices that fluctuate dramatically over time and they must also address regulatory uncertainty and pollution control upgrades, whereas, for example, solar, wind, and geothermal power plants are not subject to such fuel price volatility. what mix of renewable resources and traditional resources is actually the most reliable and cost effective system to meet our energy needs and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions?