The call for robust funding for electric transmission deployment and research in the Department of Energy’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget has gained momentum, with a diverse coalition of over 40 national and regional organizations and companies pressing Congress in a joint letter.
The letter, spearheaded by the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) and co-signed by influential groups such as the American Clean Power Association, Business Council for Sustainable Energy, and the Sierra Club, emphasizes the critical need for upgrading and expanding the nation’s transmission network. It comes at a time when the demand for electricity is on the rise, marking the first significant surge in two decades.
One of the key technologies highlighted in the coalition’s plea is the high-capacity ACCC® Conductor, known for its ability to enhance the efficiency and reliability of transmission lines. This conductor, composed of a hybrid carbon and glass fiber core surrounded by aluminum strands, offers increased capacity while reducing line losses and costs. Its implementation could be instrumental in meeting the growing demand for electricity swiftly and sustainably.
The urgency for modernizing the transmission system is underscored by concerns over national security, with reports indicating a concerning uptick in cyber and physical attacks targeting the grid. A robust and resilient transmission infrastructure not only ensures reliable access to electricity but also strengthens the nation’s defenses against emerging threats.
The coalition’s letter outlines specific funding requests for various DOE programs, including the Grid Deployment Office, Office of Electricity, and Loan Programs Office. Additionally, it calls for expanded borrowing authority for the Transmission Facilitation Program, emphasizing the role of public investment in catalyzing private capital and creating jobs while delivering affordable energy to consumers.
The benefits of investing in transmission infrastructure extend beyond immediate economic gains. By unlocking the vast potential of domestic clean energy resources, such as wind and solar, a modernized grid paves the way for a more sustainable energy future. Moreover, the deployment of advanced technologies like the ACCC® Conductor contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change impacts.
As the nation seeks to transition towards a renewable energy economy, initiatives like the ACORE-led coalition’s advocacy for transmission funding are crucial. By prioritizing investments in innovative technologies and infrastructure, policymakers can not only address the immediate challenges posed by increasing electricity demand but also lay the foundation for a cleaner, more resilient energy system for generations to come.
