We Should Leverage--Not Replace--the U.S. Power Grid
Replacing the U.S. power grid could cost almost $5 trillion. But new technologies can bring us power at a lower cost. What does this mean for the future of the electric system?
By Melissa C. Lott
This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American
As we move to a cleaner energy system we should leverage – not replace – the existing power grid according to Dr. Joshua Rhodes at the University of Texas at Austin.
In his new article, Rhodes quantifies the value of the infrastructure that makes up the nation’s power grid (power plants, transmission and distribution lines, substations, transformers…). He then explores the possible pathways that we can take as we move to a cleaner energy future, estimating the cost of each option.
In the end, Rhodes concludes that:
On supporting science journalism
If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.
“There is no path that does not require investment – even just maintaining what we have will cost hundreds of billions, if not trillions, of dollars over the next decade. The bigger question is: As we continue to replace and rebuild this amazing grid, what technologies should we focus on?”
One can read the entire article for free here.
It’s Time to Stand Up for Science
If you enjoyed this article, I’d like to ask for your support. Scientific American has served as an advocate for science and industry for 180 years, and right now may be the most critical moment in that two-century history.
I’ve been a Scientific American subscriber since I was 12 years old, and it helped shape the way I look at the world. SciAm always educates and delights me, and inspires a sense of awe for our vast, beautiful universe. I hope it does that for you, too.
If you subscribe to Scientific American, you help ensure that our coverage is centered on meaningful research and discovery; that we have the resources to report on the decisions that threaten labs across the U.S.; and that we support both budding and working scientists at a time when the value of science itself too often goes unrecognized.
In return, you get essential news, captivating podcasts, brilliant infographics, can't-miss newsletters, must-watch videos, challenging games, and the science world's best writing and reporting. You can even gift someone a subscription.
There has never been a more important time for us to stand up and show why science matters. I hope you’ll support us in that mission.
