Develop affordable solutions to modernize the ageing grid infrastructure, ensuring reliable power quality and stable delivery. 

Electric operating companies need solutions to manage a rapidly growing and increasingly dynamic grid with increased loads and inverter-based resources (e.g., solar, wind). This challenge can be addressed through a range of solutions, with some technology areas of interest outlined below. 

• Advanced grid management systems, AI-powered predictive maintenance, and cybersecurity solutions for connected grid devices. 

• Online condition monitoring. 

• Integrate advanced technologies such as AI and data analytics for better management and security.  

• Predictive maintenance for grid assets and advanced grid management systems with real-time data integration. 

• Consistent and reliable power delivery while improving grid resilience against extreme weather events and/or cyberattacks. 

• Weather stations installed on lines and/or more accurate weather information. 

• Advanced power quality monitoring and analytics systems.  

• Solutions to mitigate power quality issues like voltage fluctuations, power surges, and outages. 

• Increase the capacity and efficiency of power transmission and distribution. 

• Develop advanced loading/hosting capacity maps to optimize grid planning and integration of new resources by providing a clear picture of where additional capacity can be accommodated. 

• Streamline line siting: Utilize machine learning and other advanced tools to expedite the planning and permitting process for new power lines. 

• Vegetation Management: Develop advanced technologies for inspecting, prioritizing, and managing vegetation on or near power lines to enhance grid reliability and safety. 

• Inspection: Utilize various sensor types mounted on airborne (drones, airplanes), terrestrial (vehicles, robots), and satellite platforms to gather detailed vegetation data for right-of-way assessments. 

• Prioritization: Integrate AI and machine learning for automated issue recognition and prioritization of vegetation management tasks based on potential risk and impact on power lines. 

• Mitigation and Control: Develop innovative techniques for vegetation mitigation, control, and long-term management. This could include advanced cutting technologies, targeted herbicide application, or preventive landscaping solutions using low-growing, slow-growing, or pollinator-friendly plant species.