National Grid unveils $2bn Future Grid Plan for clean energy revolution

National Grid submitted its $2 billion Electric Sector Modernization Plan (ESMP), dubbed the Future Grid Plan, to the Grid Modernization Advisory Council (GMAC). This landmark plan outlines the critical investments needed over the next five years and beyond to meet Massachusetts‘ pioneering climate change, clean energy, and equity goals, as set out in the 2050 Clean Energy and Climate Plan (CECP).

“We Are at an Inflection Point,” Says National Grid President

Steve Woerner, President of National Grid, New England, emphasized the urgency of the situation, saying, “With electric peak demand expected to double over the next 25 years, now is the time to build a future grid that is smarter, stronger, and cleaner.”

Key Areas of Investment for a Cleaner, Smarter Grid

The Future Grid Plan is a comprehensive and flexible roadmap, earmarking around $2 billion in three crucial areas, which are network infrastructure, technology and platforms, and customer programs.

Network infrastructure involves new and upgraded power lines, transformers, and substations, all aimed at boosting resilience and meeting the Commonwealth’s soaring electric demand. Technology and platforms will see state-of-the-art planning tools, systems, and data monitoring are among the technological investments to drive smarter decision-making. And under customer programs, new ways will be offered for customers to adopt cleaner energy solutions, manage costs, and build community resilience.

Future Grid Plan Addresses Equity and Reliability

The plan is designed not only to enhance grid reliability but also to empower customer choices in the transition from a fossil-based economy. Nicola Medalova, National Grid New England’s Chief Operating Officer, stated, “This is a holistic plan that identifies the system investments and changes needed in the local electric distribution grid, its operations, and how it must perform to benefit all.”

Stakeholder Engagement and Community Impact

Extensive public engagement preceded the submission of the Future Grid Plan, which aligns with the feedback from various stakeholders, including Environmental Justice Communities (EJCs). The plan projects to generate economic activity of $1.4 billion and create 11,000 jobs by 2030, alongside environmental benefits.

Public Process and Future Steps

The submission commences a vital public process that includes workshops and engagement with GMAC and other electric distribution companies. The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) will consider the formal filing of the Future Grid Plan in January 2024.

National Grid’s Track Record in Advancing Clean Energy

The Future Grid Plan builds upon National Grid’s prior investments that have already been approved by the DPU, putting us on a path to reducing emissions and increasing electrification. Their efforts aim to support Massachusetts’ goal to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, one of the most ambitious climate goals in the nation.

In summary, National Grid’s Future Grid Plan is a monumental step toward a cleaner, more reliable, and equitable energy future, aligning perfectly with the Commonwealth’s leading-edge climate and clean energy goals.