Grid modernization is an important component of the city’s energy strategy. An electric grid with a high number of local renewable energy systems will require a modernized electricity system. Modernizing the system is necessary to achieve the following goals: (1) allowing more renewable energy to be generated within the District, (2) improving the efficiency and reliability of the energy we use, (3) improving the resiliency of our energy system, and (4) providing economic benefits to District residents and businesses by reducing the need for costly infrastructure investments where possible. As we enhance our ability to locally generate and store energy easily and flexibly from multiple sources and locations across the District, we will save energy costs and reduce the need for traditional utility infrastructure such as substations, poles, and wires.
Learn more about the progress below:
Grid Modernization Initiatives
- PowerPath DC
PowerPath DC is the Public Service Commission’s grid modernization initiative that outlines critical next steps to achieve a reliable, sustainable and resilient energy system in the District.
- Benefits of Energy Storage in DC
Batteries that can store electricity are increasingly common around the country. This study, prepared by experts at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, explores how local deployment of batteries could help lower energy costs in DC.
- Electric Vehicle Dashboard
DOEE has launched a new Dashboard that helps residents track the growth of electric vehicles and EV charging stations in the District. The link above explains more about what DOEE is doing to support EVs.
- Transmission Investments and Costs for DC
The District imports most of its electricity from a high-voltage transmission network operated by an entity known as PJM, the regional grid operator for the mid-Atlantic. The link above explains more about how PJM’s transmission planning affects DC.
Additional Resources
- Office of the People’s Counsel: OPC advocates for consumers of electricity, natural gas and telecommunications.
- Public Service Commission: PSC is the regulatory body that serves the public interest by ensuring that financially healthy utility companies provide safe, reliable and quality utility services.
For questions, please contact [email protected] and [email protected].