Download Project Description (140k PDF)

Download Background Paper (764k PDF)

Download Final Report (1400k PDF)

The Grid Enhancement Forum will be investigating opportunities for enhancing the Nation's electric transmission grid through the use of various new technologies, including solid-state power electronics-based solutions (also known as "FACTS" technologies), high-voltage direct current ("HVDC") interconnectors across "seams" in the regional grids, and superconducting-based technologies. It will bring together a diverse group of stakeholders to undertake the following:

1. Agree upon the appropriate methodology.
2. Using the methodology, authorize a panel of experts to independently evaluate the state of development and current commercial viability of various technologies.
3. Make policy recommendations on what changes may be required to integrate these new technologies into the existing regulatory framework and eliminate identified barriers to commercial deployment.
4. Conduct a educational campaign to raise public awareness and acceptance of the technologies.

The Grid Enhancement Forum will begin in June 2002. The final report will be issued later in the year. The project is expected to have a significant impact on decisions made by regulators, financial analysts, utility executives, the media, and potential customers.

To join the Grid Enhancement Forum or obtain more information, please contact the Project Director, Phil Marston (pmarston@caem.org or 202.739.0134)