This paper, approved at the September 2014 EAC meeting and delivered to the Department of Energy, examines the factors influencing significant shifts in the U.S. electricity system; the needs and expectations of tomorrow’s evolving consumers the expanded and modernized grid will serve; and the operational improvements needed to facilitate the 21st century system; and suggests ways the Department of Energy can use its resources, research and development capabilities, and market development and commercialization tools to facilitate the grid improvements the nation needs while keeping the costs to citizens, businesses and industries affordable.
The paper offers the EAC recommendations for strategic opportunities including future grid operating systems, improving power flow control, developing more resilient distribution systems, integrating multiple systems and technologies, and designing and planning the future grid.
