U.S. Representative Mike Quigley of Illinois, Co-Chair of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition, has praised the Biden Administration’s efforts to strengthen America’s electric grid. In a statement released in response to the announcement, Quigley emphasized the importance of preparing the grid for increasing energy demand resulting from factors such as onshoring of manufacturing, AI and data centers, and the electrification of the economy.
Quigley has been advocating for advanced grid technologies like high-performance conductors and dynamic line ratings since 2019, and he believes that these technologies are essential in creating the energy grid America needs. Advanced grid technologies enable transmission lines to carry more power, reduce costs, and enhance network reliability.
In 2020, Quigley requested the Department of Energy to conduct a case study on the benefits of technologies like power flow control, topology optimization, and Dynamic Line Ratings. This study led to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission mandating their expanded use. Quigley has continued to advocate for further studies on the impacts of increased bulk transmission efficiency and Dynamic Line Rating technology on retail power rates.
The Biden Administration’s efforts to bolster the grid and maximize investments in clean energy have been met with approval from Quigley, who sees it as a crucial step in harnessing the power of advanced technologies for a sustainable energy future. Hours of operation for his office are Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
