The United States is taking significant steps to upgrade and modernize its transmission and distribution (T&D) network to keep up with the changing times. With renewable energy being added to the grid and an increase in demand due to factors like growing data center needs and the electrification of transportation and manufacturing processes, the U.S. government recognizes the need for power grid upgrades.
President Biden’s “Investing in America” agenda is making history with a more than $30 billion investment in grid infrastructure from the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. These investments aim to deliver reliable, affordable electricity to families and businesses, prepare for worsening natural disasters, and unlock the benefits of clean energy.
The White House has highlighted various actions to streamline permitting for transmission system projects and overcome financial hurdles. Projects like the Ten West Link transmission line from Arizona to California, unlocking solar project capacity, and the Southwest Intertie Project-North from Idaho to Nevada will bring much-needed transmission capacity to the region.
To speed up the approval process, the Department of Energy (DOE) has issued rules for environmental reviews and federal permitting of new transmission lines. The Coordinated Interagency Transmission Authorization and Permits (CITAP) program aims to improve coordination across agencies for a more efficient review process.
In addition to upgrading existing lines, the DOE’s categorical exclusion will facilitate the process. By deploying modern grid technologies like high-performance conductors and dynamic line ratings, existing lines can carry more power, increase reliability, reduce grid congestion, and cut energy costs.
High-performance conductors and dynamic line ratings are crucial for enhancing the current-carrying capacity of transmission systems. By operating at higher temperatures, new technologies like carbon-core conductors and aluminum metal-matrix core conductors can increase efficiency and reliability.
The deployment of dynamic line ratings (DLR) systems provides real-time visibility into line capacity and enables customized rating profiles. These systems, like LineVision’s sensors, offer improved situational awareness and informed decision-making for transmission lines.
Alternative solutions like optical fiber sensing from companies like Prisma Photonics are also gaining traction, offering unmatched awareness of conditions affecting conductor health. With advanced equipment like the Viper-HV recloser and the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter, utilities can quickly restore power following temporary faults and improve grid reliability.
By embracing innovative technologies and solutions, the U.S. is on track to enhance its transmission and distribution network, making it more resilient, reliable, and efficient for the future.
This article discusses how the US Department of Energy and industry are working together to improve America’s electric power grid. The article mentions initiatives to strengthen transmission and distribution systems to enhance grid reliability and resilience. The collaboration between the government and industry is essential for modernizing the power grid and preparing for future challenges.