Optimizing Grid Infrastructure and Proactive Planning to Support Load Growth and Public Policy Goals

The power sector is facing the highest level of growing demand in decades, driven by the rapid expansion of new data centers, reshoring of manufacturing, and the electrification of end uses. To meet projected demand, the U.S. electricity supply will have to expand more than five times faster than in the prior two decades. This acceleration will intensify pressure on grid planning, strain supply chains, and complicate environmental policy while increasing capital investment needs and cost burdens for customers. 

In this whitepaper, we highlight effective solutions to address these challenges and how they have been implemented across the industry. We offer actionable recommendations for regulators, system planners, utilities, and other key stakeholders to navigate obstacles related to supply, interconnection, cost, and environmental policy in the evolving power sector. 

This whitepaper was prepared by The Brattle Group for Clean Air Task Force.