New Pennsylvania Bill Would Modernize Grid and Cut Costs Using Advanced Transmission Technologies

HB 2223 would unlock capacity faster and save Pennsylvania consumers money 

HARRISBURG, PA – Pennsylvania lawmakers have introduced new legislation to modernize the Commonwealth’s electric grid by requiring utilities to evaluate and deploy advanced transmission technologies when building or upgrading transmission lines — a step that could unlock capacity faster and save consumers money. 

“Instead of pouring more money into expensive new construction, we can get more out of the power lines we already have with advanced transmission technologies. If utility companies deploy this technology, it means the grid can operate at peak efficiency without burdening customers with higher costs — which are already way too high for working families and small businesses,” said Representative Elizabeth Fiedler. 

“As electricity demand rises across the PJM region, states like Pennsylvania have an opportunity to lead with solutions that are faster and more cost-effective than traditional grid expansion alone,” said Chris D’Agostino, Pennsylvania State Lead at Advanced Energy United. “Requiring utilities to deploy advanced transmission technologies will help relieve congestion, speed new energy onto the grid, and protect consumers from unnecessary infrastructure costs.” 

Across the United States, policymakers and grid operators are grappling with rapidly surging demand. While new long-distance transmission remains essential, advanced transmission technologies (ATTs) offer a complementary strategy that can be deployed quickly and cost-effectively to expand grid capabilities.  

ATTs encompass a suite of hardware and software tools that increase the capacity and flexibility of both existing and new transmission lines. These include grid-enhancing technologies such as dynamic line ratings, advanced power flow controls, and topology optimization, which function collectively like a GPS for the transmission system by optimizing power flows and reducing bottlenecks. Others, like advanced reconductoring, effectively widen the lane to carry more power along the same corridor. 

Yet, despite their proven performance, these solutions remain underutilized due to outdated regulatory frameworks and utility business models. This legislation addresses that gap by requiring utilities to evaluate ATTs on both existing and proposed infrastructure.