U.S. DOE Unveils $2.2 Billion Investment To Modernize U.S. Power Grid And Boost Clean Energy
In alignment with the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has unveiled a historic $2.2 billion investment in the nation’s power grid. This funding, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program, supports eight major projects across 18 states. The initiative aims to enhance grid resilience against extreme weather, reduce costs for communities, and expand grid capacity to accommodate rising demands from manufacturing and data centers.
This significant investment will drive nearly $10 billion in total public and private funding, bolstering the U.S. grid with nearly 13 gigawatts (GW) of new capacity, including 4,800 megawatts (MW) of offshore wind power. The upgrades are expected to create at least 5,000 jobs and improve over 1,000 miles of transmission lines.
John Podesta, Senior Advisor to the President for International Climate Policy, noted that the projects are pivotal in achieving climate and clean energy goals. “Today’s awards are a step closer to our clean energy future by upgrading grid infrastructure nationwide,” he stated.
White House National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi highlighted the grid’s expansion as a key element in addressing climate challenges. “The investments will enhance grid strength and resilience, mitigating the impacts of climate-driven extreme weather,” Zaidi said.
The GRIP Program, part of the DOE’s Building a Better Grid Initiative and authorized by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, represents the largest federal investment in grid infrastructure. The funding will support projects through the Grid Innovation Program grants, focusing on deploying innovative transmission and grid technologies.
Key projects include:
- Clean Path New York and North Plains Connector: These projects will install approximately 625 miles of new transmission lines, boosting grid capacity by about 4,300 MW and integrating high voltage, direct current (HVDC) technology.
- Advanced Technology Upgrades: Six projects will enhance existing grid infrastructure with advanced conductors, dynamic line ratings, microgrids, and distribution management systems.
- Regional Collaborations: Projects like the RELIEF and Power Up New England initiatives will address system contingency issues and facilitate new offshore wind connections.
In addition to the Grid Innovation Program, the GRIP Program includes Grid Resilience Utility and Industry Grants and Smart Grid Grants. The second round of funding selections for these mechanisms will be announced later this year.
This unprecedented investment aims to modernize the U.S. power grid, support clean energy growth, and foster collaboration across federal, state, and private sectors.