March 19, 2025

Innovators boost aging U.S. power grid

Innovative solutions like dynamic lines, AI-driven monitoring, and battery storage are helping the U.S. power grid handle rising energy demands.

 

transmission lines

Image for illustration purposes

USA: The aging U.S. power grid faces mounting pressure from surging electricity demand, including data centers, EVs, and factories. With new transmission corridors taking nearly a decade to build, experts warn that grid constraints could hinder economic growth. However, several innovative solutions are already helping boost transmission capacity without major infrastructure expansion.

Dynamic Line Ratings (DLR) adjust power flow based on real-time weather conditions. Estonia-based Gridraven’s models can increase transmission capacity by 30 % using hyper-local wind speed measurements, enabling smarter grid management.

AI-driven monitoring is improving grid reliability. California-based VIE Technologies deploys sensors on aging transformers—some over 40 years old—to detect issues like overheating and insulation loss before they cause failures. This proactive maintenance prevents costly outages and reduces the need for new transformers.

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are expanding rapidly, with nearly 12 GW deployed in 2024. Companies like Base Power lease batteries to homeowners and sell stored power to utilities during peak demand, providing backup energy and grid stability.

Other advancements include smarter materials like lightweight, high-conductivity cables from DexMat and AI-powered grid planning from Amperon, which helps optimise energy distribution.

These technologies, combined with ongoing grid upgrades, offer a path to strengthening the power network and supporting future growth without waiting for new transmission lines.

Source: Reuters