March 24-27, 2025 | Dallas, Texas

Grid Modernization

Grid modernization aims to fortify the distribution and transmission grids through physical infrastructure investments, as well as software, to improve system operability and resilience. This topic covers system hardening, undergrounding, ADMS, AMI, grid-enhancing technologies, and non-wires alternatives.

Sponsored by:

Sensus

Featured content

featured sessions

What an Australian utility learned about the role of digital substations in the energy transition
 

March 25 | 1:00-1:50 PM | C3

The presentation underscores the importance of integrating modern digital substation technology while maintaining operational reliability and safety, paving the way for more resilient and flexible electrical infrastructure in rapidly growing urban environments.


 

featured sessions

Navigating Data Center Demand and Load Growth: Strategies for Utilities and Grid Operators in the New Era of Power Distribution


March 24 | 1:00-1:50 PM | C143/149

This workshop will explore the implications of rapid data center expansion, focusing on load growth, grid reliability, policies, and the evolving role of utilities in managing this complex and landscape.


 

Grid modernization educational opportunities

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8:00 AM
  1. C1
    240 mins
    This Utility University course is open to any attendee with an all-access or utility all-access badge. These courses are first come, first served onsite in Dallas, however, pre-registration is still r …
1:00 PM
  1. C148
    240 mins
    This Utility University course is open to any attendee with an all-access or utility all-access badge. These courses are first come, first served onsite in Dallas, however, pre-registration is still r …
10:00 AM
  1. C141
    50 mins
    This session will cover advances in using communication over-the-air to enhance automatic source transfer scheme speed and security. Modern technologies such as cellular Ethernet allow communication o …
10:15 AM
  1. Grid Transformation Knowledge Hub- Booth #1051, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    As the global shift towards renewable energy intensifies, the need to expand grid capacity without the lengthy and costly process of rebuilding infrastructure has never been more urgent. Integrating r …
  2. Innovative and Emerging Technologies Knowledge Hub- Booth #4733, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    As Distributed System Operators (DSOs) face the challenges of increasing electricity demand, maintaining grid reliability, and integrating renewable energy, they must manage a grid composed of diverse …
  3. D220
    60 mins
    Peer-to-peer exchange is a discussion on a specific topic. Discussions provide attendees access to knowledge and expertise to help them address the critical challenges facing the industry today in a s …
1:00 PM
  1. C3
    50 mins
    Modern single-phase electronic reclosing devices help mitigate permanent service interruptions caused by temporary faults. Their adaptability provides increased reliability and resiliency to sections …
  2. D224
    60 mins
    Escalating climate challenges and the transformative energy landscape call for new approaches to reinforce grid resiliency. This roundtable session will focus on the unique threats posed by extreme we …
  3. C2
    50 mins
    As more data inundates electric utilities, it becomes harder to know what to focus on. To drive actionable results, this talk will cover key actionable metrics (i.e. KPIs) and how to access those KPIs …
  4. C1
    50 mins
    For more than 20 years, Arizona Public Service has been gradually adopting grid technologies that enable “flexibility” for customers who seek greater energy independence through rooftop solar, electri …
1:15 PM
  1. Technology and the Energy Transition Knowledge Hub- Booth #7121, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    By 2045, California will achieve carbon neutrality, driven by decarbonization across all sectors. To meet this goal, the grid must modernize to fully utilize Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), build …
  2. Digitalizing the Grid Knowledge Hub- Booth #5558, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    Distribution utilities are making massive capital investments to modernize their grids.  This typically involves deploying an ADMS and thousands, or tens of thousands, of wirelessly connected smart de …
  3. Grid Transformation Knowledge Hub- Booth #1051, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    There are industry paradigms we all know. Electrification is increasing. Legislation is changing to encourage more renewable integration. Affordability and reliability, as always are at the heart of t …
  4. Grid Edge Technologies Knowledge Hub- Booth #2041, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    As the energy landscape rapidly evolves, utilities are increasingly turning to Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS) to orchestrate DERs to maintain grid stability and optimize perfor …
2:00 PM
  1. Innovative and Emerging Technologies Knowledge Hub- Booth #4733, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    This session will explore the role of advanced data collection technologies and software applications in identifying and implementing solutions for grid modernization at electric utilities. Key topics …
  2. C1
    50 mins
    Distribution planners balance customer needs and grid reliability daily. Duke Energy’s digital tools help planners make decisions faster, especially when customers need to understand the capacity avai …
  3. C2
    50 mins
    FirstEnergy laid out an ambitious agenda for grid modernization, improved reliability, customer service, and regulatory compliance that entails distribution automation to support and manage DER and Vo …
  4. C3
    50 mins
    Many power utilities have installed a large number of remote terminal units since the early 1990s that are nearing the end of life or requiring an upgrade. This presents a challenge for utilities to c …
2:45 PM
  1. Digitalizing the Grid Knowledge Hub- Booth #5558, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    In this session, we will explore how Grid Enhancing Technologies (GETs) leverage the power of AI to optimize the use of existing grid infrastructure. This session will introduce the concept and benefi …
  2. Grid Edge Technologies Knowledge Hub- Booth #2041, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    Explore how InnPower leapfrogged from Excel sheets to AI Tools. Understand the AI Cake approach to layering AI into a Utility workforce. Discover transformational use cases such as gen-AI for reportin …
3:00 PM
  1. C147/ 154
    50 mins
    The electrical power industry currently offers key solutions to achieve society’s decarbonization targets, and many electrical utilities still face significant challenges. Two issues are still under d …
  2. C2
    50 mins
    Several lessons were learned from the post-storm analysis of the impact of the 2021 Winter Storm Uri which had a devastating effect on Texas electricity grids. Among these lessons was the need for an …
  3. C1
    50 mins
    The transition toward renewable energy sources necessitates a comprehensive overhaul of grid infrastructure and operational strategies. A panel of utility industry experts from Eversource, PSEG New Je …
3:30 PM
  1. Grid Edge Technologies Knowledge Hub- Booth #2041, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    The modern electric grid faces unprecedented challenges, including the integration of variable renewable energy sources, the rise of distributed energy resources, and the increasing threat of cyber at …
  2. Innovative and Emerging Technologies Knowledge Hub- Booth #4733, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    Want a smarter, more reliable grid? Join us for a live demonstration of cutting-edge tools designed to tackle the toughest challenges in distribution network validation. From phase detection to transf …
  3. Grid Transformation Knowledge Hub- Booth #1051, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    Utilities focus on grid transformation to enhance system reliability, improve storm response, and manage resources more effectively. Grid transformation is a broad term, supporting objectives from int …
4:00 PM
  1. C1
    50 mins
    In an era where data drives innovation, utility companies, regardless of size, face common challenges and reap similar benefits from advanced data integration. Glendale Water and Power, a municipal wa …
  2. C3
    50 mins
    Grid Edge Intelligence (GEI) is becoming increasingly common as a part of utility strategies to navigate the evolving landscape of grid modernization. This session will explore the landscape of how ut …
  3. C2
    50 mins
    One of PECO’s goals to improve reliability is to reduce the number of customers per circuit segment impacted by a fault on its electric distribution system. On some PECO circuits, the number of custom …
9:00 AM
  1. C140
    50 mins
    Omaha Public Power District is undertaking one of the most comprehensive digital transformation and grid modernization initiatives in the industry. OPPD’s current technology, systems, and tools lack c …
10:15 AM
  1. Technology and the Energy Transition Knowledge Hub- Booth #7121, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    Take aways:  Acquire insights about the monetization of DERs in a VPP Uncover the ins and outs of Europe’s largest VPP, and the market value it has. Delve into the measures of success that define the …
  2. Innovative and Emerging Technologies Knowledge Hub- Booth #4733, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    Grid flexibility is a critical enabler of the global energy transition, allowing for the seamless integration of renewable energy sources and enhanced grid resilience. This session will explore how in …
10:30 AM
  1. D1
    60 mins
    The electric grid is becoming increasingly complex with higher penetrations of distributed energy resources (DERs), hyperscaling demand driven by large loads, renewable generation, evolving load patte …
11:00 AM
  1. Initiate Hub Booth #5600
    60 mins
    Utilities across the globe are looking for new technologies to enhance their operations while addressing the emerging threats and opportunities for the grid. Getting from initial meeting to full scale …
  2. Resiliency Knowledge Hub- Booth #1001, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    See how a major US T&D utility greatly reduced O&M expenses and significantly improved cybersecurity by unifying the automated device management and secure access control for over 100,000 T&D IEDs. In …
  3. C148
    50 mins
    Utility communication networks are essential for reliable and secure grid operations. These networks facilitate data collection, sharing, and analysis, providing valuable insights for improving grid p …
  4. C156
    50 mins
    Customer adoption of DERs and new electric loads continues to challenge distribution planners and strain system operators.  Existing cloud-integrated load flexibility resources cannot provide the conf …
  5. Innovative and Emerging Technologies Knowledge Hub- Booth #4733, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) are still common in our electrical infrastructure despite their toxicity and risk.  Amidyne has developed a proprietary way to inspect/sample/replace equipment for PCB …
11:45 AM
  1. Digitalizing the Grid Knowledge Hub- Booth #5558, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    The transition from conventional to digital substations is taking form in our industry. There are many things to consider when converting to a digital substation, one of which is time synchronization. …
1:00 PM
  1. D222
    240 mins
    The U.S. electricity grid is undergoing a rapid transformation as inverter-based resources (IBRs) like solar and wind power become integral to the energy mix. This evolution offers tremendous opportun …
  2. C2
    50 mins
    Accurate wildfire prevention, detection, and immediate response within the utility landscape is crucial due to a critical challenge in reducing the ignition gap and minimizing the risk of wildfires. B …
  3. C3
    50 mins
    The rapid integration of distributed energy resources (DERs), both behind-the-meter (BTM) and in front of the meter (FTM), along with EVs, is transforming the electricity delivery sector. This evoluti …
  4. C1
    50 mins
    Downed electrical conductors are a safety and reliability concern for the ComEd distribution system due to short-circuit protection limitations in clearing high-impedance faults. ComEd’s distribution …
1:15 PM
  1. Initiate Hub Booth #5600
    105 mins
    All attendees have access to the Initiate startup pavilion, where up to 58 startup companies will be exhibiting and pitching their solutions to a panel of judges. Come learn about the latest technolog …
  2. Initiate Hub Booth #5600
    105 mins
    All attendees have access to the Initiate startup pavilion, where up to 58 startup companies will be exhibiting and pitching their solutions to a panel of judges. Come learn about the latest technolog …
2:00 PM
  1. C1
    50 mins
    Subject to severe storms, foliage, and wildlife, lateral lines are the most vulnerable area of the grid. Yet the grid edge is often overlooked when it comes to modernization. In this panel, Florida Po …
  2. Digitalizing the Grid Knowledge Hub- Booth #5558, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    In this session, National Grid will share highlights from the recent AMI 2.0 meter rollout in New York and Massachusetts and the benefits already being realized from meters, including their work with …
  3. C2
    50 mins
    Electric utilities will require new system planning tools to be able to better predict where, when, and how much electrification is projected to impact the electric grid.  In addition, as customer loa …
  4. C3
    50 mins
    CPS Energy has been awarded a DOE GRIP grant that includes a federal cost share up to ~$30M over 5 years of program deployment and demonstration. The GRIP grant enables CPS Energy to advance its Commu …
3:00 PM
  1. C2
    50 mins
    Utilities are experiencing an unprecedented acceleration in change and development of new technology in order to achieve aggressive clean energy goals or address risks. Therefore, in addition to "what …
  2. C3
    50 mins
    The smart grid era has ushered in new technology advancements, putting increased pressure on utilities to provide digital services outside of their traditional scope. With the advent of distributed en …
  3. C2
    50 mins
    This session will present an in-depth case study of Clallam County PUD's innovative use of geographic information systems (GIS) to enhance utility planning and resilience. In collaboration with the Sm …
  4. C1
    50 mins
    In 2024, National Grid operationalized the largest deployment of dynamic line ratings (DLR) in the United States and the first in New York State. With the additional transmission line capacity enabled …
3:30 PM
  1. Digitalizing the Grid Knowledge Hub- Booth #5558, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    Grid modernization is key to building a cleaner, more resilient energy future. With a shift toward renewable energy, distributed resources, and smart technologies, the grid needs to adapt to new deman …
  2. Grid Transformation Knowledge Hub- Booth #1051, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    In the ever-evolving world of power system automation, the IEC 61850 standard serves as a cornerstone for seamless communication and interoperability. However, like mastering a complex spell at Hogwar …
  3. Grid Edge Technologies Knowledge Hub- Booth #2041, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    Discover how cutting-edge grid-edge technologies are transforming the energy landscape. By integrating advanced edge sensing, processing, and innovative smart panel solutions, we’re tackling critical …
4:00 PM
  1. C1
    50 mins
    Wood poles are the backbone of the distribution and telecommunication grid. These assets are aging while they condition to be asked to accommodate more attachments and withstand stronger weather event …
  2. C3
    50 mins
    The mega trends of the energy transition are introducing macro disruptors to the electric grid, including increased load demands on its aging infrastructure in conjunction with new regulations that dr …
  3. C2
    50 mins
    As climate patterns evolve and demand on utility systems increases, utility companies must learn from past experiences and integrate advanced tools and technology into their operations. This integrati …
4:15 PM
  1. Innovative and Emerging Technologies Knowledge Hub- Booth #4733, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    Prysmian Cables & Systems USA, with its partners Consolidated Edison and Exelon, is developing a hands-free medium voltage underground power cable splicing machine to dramatically improve workforce sa …
10:30 AM
  1. Resiliency Knowledge Hub- Booth #1001, Exhibit Floor
    30 mins
    This case study showcases a comprehensive assessment and structural rehabilitation of an aging transmission tower situated on the bank of a navigable waterway, where it had experienced significant deg …

 

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