Aging grids drive $51B in annual utility distribution spending

Utility Dive: The nation's electric grid is rapidly aging. A 2015 report from the U.S. Department of Energy concluded 70% of power transformers are 25 years of age or older, 60% of circuit breakers are 30 years or older and 70% of transmission lines are 25 years or older. Utilities are rushing to modernize, not just to enable a new era of electric technology, but to maintain reliability.

EIA says capital investment "accounts for the largest share of distribution costs as utilities work to upgrade aging equipment."

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