1. The US electrical grid needs modernization to meet the increasing demand for power from electric vehicles, green steel, data centers, and heat pumps.
2. New technologies like the “magic ball” from Heimdall and advanced conductors for reconductoring can increase the capacity of transmission lines and allow for more clean electricity from renewable sources.
3. The fragmented nature of the US electrical grid system and regulatory hurdles have been barriers to implementing these new technologies, but there is growing interest and urgency among utilities to upgrade the grid efficiently and effectively.
The US electrical grid is in need of modernization as demand for electricity increases, particularly from EVs, green steel, data centers, and heat pumps. New technologies such as Heimdall’s “magic ball” can help existing grid infrastructure carry more electricity by measuring wire temperature accurately. Reconductoring, another technology, involves replacing old power lines with cables made from advanced materials to increase grid capacity, enabling more wind and solar power integration.
While reconductoring is widely used in other countries, many US utilities have been reluctant to adopt it due to regulatory hurdles and unfamiliarity with the technology. Implementing advanced conductors could increase transmission capacity and lower wholesale electricity costs, allowing for significant savings and more clean energy integration. However, the fragmented nature of the US electrical grid system and various regulatory challenges have slowed down the adoption of new technologies like advanced conductors.
Despite these challenges, there is growing interest in grid-enhancing technologies among utilities, with some states passing legislation to incentivize the use of advanced conductors. With the urgent need for grid modernization to accommodate increasing electricity demand, there is a sense of urgency to improve grid efficiency and capacity in order to facilitate the transition to cleaner energy sources. Ultimately, cooperation between utility companies, grid operators, and policymakers will be essential in overcoming economic barriers and maximizing the potential of clean energy technologies on the grid.