DOE Launches $1.9B Initiative to Expand U.S. Power Grid Capacity
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced a $1.9 billion funding opportunity aimed at accelerating upgrades to the nation’s power grid to improve reliability and reduce electricity costs.
The funding will be distributed through a program known as Speed to Power through Accelerated Reconductoring and other Key Advanced Transmission Technology Upgrades (SPARK), managed by the DOE’s Office of Electricity. The initiative focuses on quickly increasing grid capacity by upgrading existing transmission lines with higher-capacity conductors and deploying Advanced Transmission Technologies (ATTs).
According to the DOE, reconductoring—replacing existing power lines with more advanced conductors—can significantly increase the amount of electricity transmitted without requiring new transmission corridors. The approach is intended to help utilities respond to rising electricity demand while maintaining system reliability.
The announcement aligns with an executive order issued by Donald Trump aimed at expanding U.S. energy infrastructure and boosting domestic energy supply.
In a statement, Chris Wright, U.S. Secretary of Energy, said the program is designed to accelerate grid modernization and lower electricity costs for households and businesses. Katie Jereza, Assistant Secretary in the DOE’s Office of Electricity, said expanding grid capacity is necessary to ensure reliable power delivery as demand grows.
The SPARK funding opportunity builds on the existing Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program, which has already provided up to $10.5 billion in funding for grid resilience and innovation projects across the United States.
Concept papers for the SPARK program are due April 2, 2026, with full applications required by May 20, 2026. The DOE expects to announce selected projects in August 2026.
Source: energy.gov
