USA: On 12 March, the US Department of Energy (DOE) announced a $1.9 B funding initiative aimed at speeding up upgrades to the nation’s power grid. The effort seeks to meet growing electricity demand, enhance system reliability, and lower costs for consumers.

Projects selected under the SPARK programme – short for Speed to Power through Accelerated Reconductoring and Key Advanced Transmission Technology Upgrades – must demonstrate how reconductoring, combined with modern transmission technologies, can expand grid capacity, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen the security of the US electricity network.

Unlike building entirely new transmission lines, which can take a decade due to permitting and land disputes, reconductoring involves replacing existing power lines with higher-capacity conductors on the same towers, allowing more electricity to flow without major construction delays.

The SPARK initiative builds on DOE’s ongoing Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) programme, which authorised up to $10.5 B over five years to enhance transmission infrastructure. By focusing on faster, smarter upgrades, the department hopes to support a more reliable and cost-effective grid while accommodating future energy growth.

Source: MSN

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