The International Energy Agency (IE) has stated that the world needs to upgrade or refurbish over 50 million miles (80 million km) of transmission lines by 2040 to meet decarbonization goals. This is the equivalent of the entire existing global grid. The IEA’s objective of 2040 has been met with skepticism among utilities, ISOs (Independent System Operators), and RTOs (Regional Transmission Organizations) alike. A recent study by the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) suggests that advanced overhead conductors could be the ideal technology for upgrading transmission facilities. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has issued a Order No. 1920, which addresses many of the critical issues affecting the transmission grid. It also includes mandatory mandatory mandatory use of alternative transmission technologies for new regional transmission facilities and upgrades to existing facilities.
Solar Dominates US Energy Capacity Growth
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has published data showing that solar accounted for over 75% of US electrical generating
