18 Dec 2019 BPC Action Applauds Bipartisan Grid Modernization Research and Development Act of 2019 in Energy and Environment

BPC Action commends Reps. Lamb (D-PA) and Herrera Beutler (R-WA) for the introduction of the Grid Modernization Research and Development Act of 2019, H.R. 5428. The United States will be better positioned to incorporate clean energy technologies and achieve emission reductions by midcentury with a resilient, modernized grid. We are glad to see Congressional support for grid modernization. 

The legislation aims to prepare the U.S. grid for the incorporation of innovative technologies and improve its resilience and reliability. The bill requires the Secretary of Energy to establish a smart grid regional demonstration initiative to illustrate the potential benefits of various advanced technologies. To complement this initiative, the bill also requires the Secretary to establish a program on electric grid modeling, which will allow researchers to better design, plan, and operate the electric grid. Additionally, the act requires the Secretary to establish programs to enhance grid resilience and strengthen emergency response capabilities; develop cost-effective hybrid energy systems; and advance the integration of more clean energy, electric vehicles, and buildings into the design, planning, and operation the grid. The Grid Modernization Research and Development Act will have positive impacts for the U.S. economy and emission trends. Modernizing the grid will also further advance the U.S. as a global leader in innovation.  

BPC Action looks forward to working with Congress to pass this important bill.