"These spikes are testing a grid that was built for a different era. More than 70% of the nation's power lines and transformers are over 25 years old with many nearing the end of their functional life. The Department of Energy has cautioned that this aging infrastructure could have "major consequences on our communities," increasing the risk of widespread, cascading blackouts. Modernizing the grid is no longer optional, it's essential."
"Fortunately, grid operators have tools to manage grid stress that they didn't have in the past. To help prevent power outages, utilities should be deploying artificial intelligence tools to analyze power supply and improve efficiency without placing additional pressures on the grid. This transformation is urgently needed. With renewables now accounting for one-fifth of U.S. electricity, nearly four times their share in 2013, grid operators are tasked with managing a more dynamic and variable energy mix."
"At the same time, systems operators are dealing with critical shortages of trained professionals. The employees who remain must analyze vast amounts of incoming data in less time, while keeping service reliable and costs under control. The result is a system that's under increasing stress. Research from Texas A&M University shows major power outages are growing by 20 percent each year, lasting longer and impacting more consumers."
More than 70% of U.S. power lines and transformers are over 25 years old, with many nearing the end of functional life. The Department of Energy warns that aging infrastructure increases the risk of widespread, cascading blackouts. Grid operators now face a more dynamic energy mix as renewables provide one-fifth of U.S. electricity, nearly four times their 2013 share. Critical shortages of trained professionals force remaining staff to analyze vast incoming data faster while maintaining reliability and controlling costs. Major power outages are growing by 20% annually, lasting longer and impacting more consumers. Rapid adoption of AI, real-time data, machine learning, and automation can anticipate problems and improve grid stability within months.
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