The U.S. Department of Energy plans to support 31 grid-improvement projects across 26 states through its SPARK initiative, with $5.25 billion in total investment, including $1.9 billion in federal funding and $3.35 billion from project partners. The projects will upgrade more than 1,500 miles of transmission lines and deploy advanced grid technologies across nearly 21,000 miles, adding more than 23 gigawatts of electricity capacity.
The initiative focuses on upgrading existing infrastructure rather than building entirely new transmission corridors. By replacing older power lines with higher-capacity conductors and using advanced technologies, DOE says the projects could reduce grid congestion, improve reliability, strengthen protection against severe weather and wildfires, and potentially lower electricity costs. The department says the approach can deliver major upgrades faster than the decades typically required for new transmission projects.
