Why a Modern Grid?

Radical changes in energy sources, regional markets, distribution systems, societal demands and consumer interests are making our current electrical infrastructure obsolete. Grid Forward members are working together on the new model.

Modern Grid Triangle image

Society demands more from our energy system. Let’s deliver it.

The electrical infrastructure is undergoing a dramatic transformation. On the one hand, distributed energy sources (wind, solar and storage), demand-side management, and a diversity of monitoring and analytics solutions are upending the economics of traditional grid management. On the other, regional governments and businesses are pushing for reliable, low-cost, carbon-free power, and taking on active roles in how power is managed and delivered. The technology exists to align the new dynamics of the system effectively – and Grid Forward and its members are collaborating on the best paths to scalable, affordable solutions to get there.

“We’re excited to be a member of Grid Forward as it focuses on issues that impact our utility, customer-owners and local communities,” said Debra Smith, CEO of Seattle City Light. “The work to accelerate grid innovation will be important as we pursue regional goals such as electrification and deep decarbonization, while continuing to deliver reliable, affordable power.”

Modernizing the electrical grid benefits utilities, governments, businesses and consumers

Grid modernization is no longer an option: it’s the proven path for utilities to build new capabilities and operational models to meet the needs of the regions they serve. Grid Forward will help all stakeholders pursue these goals:

  • Establish a more resilient, reliable and decarbonized energy system that can minimize outages, restore service more rapidly, abate peak demand, optimize efficiency programs, and use resources effectively.
  • Integrate new clean energy resources such as distributed renewables, dispatchable energy storage, automated demand response, transactive energy, smart homes/buildings, electrified transportation, and other emerging energy solutions.
  • Ensure energy affordability by encouraging optimal grid investments and balancing energy supply and demand more dynamically with near real-time data.
  • Empower consumers to make wise and economical decisions with easy-to-access, timely and accurate energy information.