Before we can begin to modernize today’s grid, we first need a clear vision of the power system required for the future. Given that vision, we can create the alignment necessary to inspire passion, investment, and progress toward an advanced U.S. grid for the 21st century. A modernized grid is a necessary enabler for a successful society in the future. Modernizing today’s grid will require a unified effort by all stakeholders rallying around a common vision.

Throughout the 20th century, the U.S. electric power delivery infrastructure served our nation well, providing adequate, affordable energy to homes, businesses and factories. This once state-of-the-art system brought a level of prosperity to the United States unmatched by any other nation in the world. But a 21st-century U.S. economy cannot be built on a 20th-century electric grid.

Many agree there is an urgent need for major improvements in the nation’s power delivery system and that advances in key technology areas can make these improvements possible. But more is needed. The Modern Grid vision will set the foundation for a transition to a Modern Grid.

Read more from the document, A Vision for the Modern Grid [PDF-174KB].