Energy Department Invests $1.9 Billion in Power Grid Upgrades Across 26 States

Why it matters locally: While the specific projects receiving funding are not detailed, this national investment in power grid upgrades could indirectly benefit South Dakota by strengthening the broader interconnected grid, potentially improving regional reliability and reducing strain on the state's energy infrastructure.

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The Department of Energy announced a nearly $2 billion investment to enhance the national power grid. The department will distribute these funds among 31 projects spanning 26 states. These projects aim to increase the country's electricity capacity by more than 23 gigawatts. This additional capacity could power approximately 16 million homes, according to departmental estimates. The investment focuses on improving the existing infrastructure. Officials expect the upgrades to contribute to the reliability and efficiency of the power grid.