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Expanding Transmission Infrastructure to Achieve Low-Cost, Reliable, and Abundant Energy

U.S. electricity demand is surging, driven by data centers and electrification, but transmission construction has stalled, dropping from 1,700 miles per year (2010‑14) to just 350 miles (2020‑23). The report identifies four key barriers—cumbersome permitting, aging infrastructure costs, siloed utility planning, and supply‑chain constraints—impeding grid expansion. It outlines actions such as coordinated regional planning, streamlined permitting, advanced transmission technologies, demand‑response programs, innovative financing, and diversified material supply chains. Implementing these measures could generate multiple‑times savings and alleviate the $20.8 billion congestion cost borne by consumers.