energy infrastructure
A simple upgrade could expand the US electricity grid
A straightforward solution could double the capacity of the U.S. electricity grid, enabling a more efficient transition to renewable energy.
In short:
- Replacing old steel power lines with new carbon-fiber ones can double the power capacity without building new infrastructure.
- The new wires, which sag less under heat, could handle increased electricity demands from renewable sources.
- Regulatory changes and federal goals aim to expedite these upgrades, addressing grid congestion.
Key quote:
“This is something that could be a triple win. A win for the electricity system, a win for utilities and a win for consumers.”
— Brian Deese, innovation fellow at MIT
Why this matters:
Upgrading existing power lines with advanced materials is a cost-effective and rapid solution to enhance the electricity grid's capacity. This approach supports the integration of renewable energy sources, crucial for combating climate change and meeting growing energy demands.
Related EHN coverage:
Hydro dams are struggling to handle the world’s intensifying weather
Converting to clean energy depends on transmission line buildout
The nation’s network of power lines needs to double or triple in the next decade if the clean energy revolution is to succeed, warn the U.S. Department of Energy, scientists, environmental groups and many policymakers.
Q&A: Dominion Energy, the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative and Virginia’s push toward renewables
State Senator Chap Petersen on the Commonwealth’s progress on reigning in the monopoly utility’s sway over legislation, and how Dominion may view Gov. Youngkin’s move to exit RGGI.
‘Death stars on sinking land’: How liquefied natural gas took over the Gulf Coast
Why the high price of modernizing the U.S. power grid is worth it
The U.S.’ outdated and fragmented power grid is increasingly threatened by the effects of climate change and global warming, but estimates show that upgrading it may cost billions, even trillions, over the coming decades.
Extreme heat is already straining the Mexican power grid
Climate change is making scorching temperatures more common in the country, which last week surpassed the peak energy demand of 2022.