Boosting Existing Transmission and Building New Lines for Tomorrow

As the demand for clean energy increases, enhancing our current electric grid becomes crucial. The article "Boosting Existing Transmission and Building New Lines for Tomorrow" highlights a dual-path strategy to address this challenge, focusing on upgrading existing transmission lines and constructing new ones.

The Need for Grid Expansion

The U.S. electric grid is pivotal for economic growth and the green transition. The shift towards electric vehicles and electrification of buildings and industries necessitates significantly more clean electricity. However, current grid capacity is lagging behind, with a substantial amount of clean energy stuck in interconnection queues. For instance, regions like Loudoun County, Virginia, face permit denials for data centers due to grid concerns​ (Breakthrough Energy)​.

Dual Paths to Expansion

1. Enhancing Existing Lines: Enhancing existing lines is often quicker and less costly than building new ones. Methods such as reconductoring with advanced conductors, grid-enhancing technologies (GETs), and converting AC lines to HVDC can significantly boost capacity. For example, advanced conductors can carry twice as much power as conventional ones by using materials like carbon fiber instead of steel, which reduces sagging and increases efficiency​ (pv magazine International)​.
2. Constructing New Lines: New transmission lines are essential for expanding regional and interregional capacity, vital for a reliable and resilient carbon-free grid. However, this process involves lengthy planning, siting, and permitting stages, which can be time-consuming and expensive​ (Breakthrough Energy)​​ (Energy.gov)​.

Advanced Conductors and GETs

Advanced conductors, such as those offered by companies like 3M and CTC Global, can significantly increase transmission capacity. Technologies like Dynamic Line Rating (DLR) and power-flow control devices optimize electricity flow, enhancing the existing infrastructure without the need for new lines​ (Utility Dive)​​ (Energy.gov)​.

Policy Support and Future Outlook

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) policies support separate planning for regional and interregional transmission, crucial for meeting decarbonization targets. Recent studies suggest that large-scale reconductoring can meet over 80% of the transmission needed for 90% clean power by 2035. Additionally, enabling widespread reconductoring in tandem with new line construction can save over $400 billion by 2050​ (pv magazine International)​​ (Energy.gov)​.

In conclusion, a combined strategy of enhancing existing lines and building new ones is essential to ensure our grid evolves to support a clean, net-zero economy. This approach not only boosts capacity but also accelerates the integration of renewable energy, making the transition to a greener future more achievable.

For more detailed insights, you can read the full article on Breakthrough Energy​ (Breakthrough Energy)​