News: New Analysis Highlights the Electric Grid’s Essential Role in Supporting the U.S. Economy and National Security A new analysis conducted by Concentric Energy Advisors shows that the U.S. electric grid is a high-value national asset that supports the economy and national security by delivering the reliable power customers depend on every day. The report concludes that continued investment in a modern, interconnected grid—and thoughtful integration of large-load customers—will be essential to protecting those benefits as electricity demand grows. America’s electric companies are projected to invest $239 billion this year to make the grid smarter, stronger, and more reliable. These investments help ensure the grid can continue to power the energy of every day, while keeping electricity as affordable as possible for all customers. Key findings and data from the analysis include: •Thoughtful integration shapes future costs: Concentric found that if large-load customers do not pay their share of fixed grid costs, the resulting nationwide cost shift to other customers could total between $120 billion and $169 billion over 30 years. •Grid investments save money now and in the future: Every dollar invested in transmission infrastructure saves customers $1.60-$1.80 in future system costs. •Off-grid solutions require substantially more capacity: To ensure reliability on their own, off-grid customers must build substantially more on-site generation and storage—often 70 percent or more above peak demand—than would be required if they were connected to the grid. "The electric grid is one of the country’s most valuable assets and economic engines. As electricity demand grows, we must continue investing in the grid to ensure it continues to deliver those benefits for customers, communities, and businesses across the country." — Drew Maloney, President and CEO of the Edison Electric Institute Press play to see how electric companies are strengthening the grid.