Electric grids worldwide are undergoing a transformation as surging electricity demand from data centers and electrification collides with aging, risk-prone infrastructure. This creates both national security imperatives and investment opportunities for grid resilience. Activities that harden, expand and modernize the grid are becoming increasingly attractive investment opportunities and policy priorities globally. Key takeaways: Grid Resilience: Neglected No More

• Electricity demand is surging, driven by data centers and electrification. To meet it, grid infrastructure will need to be built and upgraded over the next decade.
• The aging grid is a national security risk. Decades-old equipment is more likely to fail and is vulnerable to extreme weather, cyber risks and geopolitical threats, making it easier for adversaries or disasters to cause widespread outages if not addressed.
• This also presents a massive investment opportunity. Globally, about $5.8 trillion is forecast for grid upgrades between 2026–2035, with roughly $700 billion for digital grid tech; the U.S. alone expects investments of about $1 trillion over the coming decade.
• Policies and permits are key to success. While governments are pushing modernization, long siting and approval timelines can slow progress and affect costs for consumers.

• Category: Education Resources
• Tag: climate, electric grid, electricity demand, grid resilience