The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) plans to provide $1.9 billion for 31 electric grid projects across 26 states, supporting upgrades expected to add more than 23 gigawatts of transmission capacity.
The projects selected through DOE’s Speed to Power through Accelerated Reconductoring and other Key Advanced Transmission Technology Upgrades (SPARK) initiative represent $5.25 billion in total investment. Recipients will contribute about $3.35 billion in matching funds, DOE announced Sept. 24.
The projects are expected to reconductor or rebuild more than 1,500 miles of transmission lines and deploy grid-enhancing technologies across nearly 21,000 miles. DOE estimates the investments will affect electric service for about 100 million Americans.
Reconductoring involves replacing existing transmission lines with higher-capacity conductors, allowing utilities to move more electricity along existing corridors. The projects will combine those physical improvements with advanced transmission technologies designed to increase the efficiency and flexibility of the grid.
DOE prioritized projects that can use existing rights of way and be deployed relatively quickly as electricity demand increases. The department says that approach can increase transmission capacity without relying exclusively on construction of new transmission corridors, which can require lengthy planning, permitting and development processes.
The investments are also intended to reduce transmission congestion and strengthen the grid against wildfires, severe weather and other disruptions, according to DOE. The department says increasing transfer capacity could also help accommodate new large electricity users.
Growing electricity demand was a central consideration in creating the funding opportunity. DOE launched its broader Speed to Power initiative in September 2025 and subsequently received information on 238 potential projects involving transmission, generation, large electricity loads and other infrastructure. Those submissions identified 162.9 gigawatts of proposed capacity that could be in service by 2030.
The SPARK funding opportunity was issued in March with approximately $1.9 billion available for projects intended to increase grid capacity, reliability and resource adequacy. Applicants were required to demonstrate measurable improvements in electric grid capacity and system value.
The initiative is funded through the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) program, which Congress authorized through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The GRIP program was authorized to provide up to $10.5 billion over five years to states, tribes, electric utilities and other eligible recipients for grid resilience and modernization projects.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the investments are intended to make greater use of existing infrastructure while expanding the amount of electricity that can move across the nation’s transmission system.
DOE’s selections are not yet final awards. The department describes the Sept. 24 announcement as its intention to fund the projects, with awards expected to be finalized between October and January.
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