MANY MINDEDPowerNow Initiative Targets Grid Capacity Boost
OATI, which controls 95% of U.S. bulk power transactions, is developing PowerNow—a software initiative targeting 10-20% additional transmission capacity through the U.S. Department of Energy’s SPARK program. The initiative requires coordinated deployment across regional transmission operators including California’s ISO, New York’s ISO, and major utilities like Duke Energy. PowerNow uses three technical levers: near-real-time inter-regional coordination (replacing weekly data exchanges), software-based dynamic line ratings, and AI-enhanced resource dispatch. OATI claims a single line rating adjustment could increase capacity availability by 100-200% based on current power flows, translating to 'hundreds of megawatts' per line. Formal SPARK funding approval is expected in October 2026 after OATI’s early 2026 application.
The initiative’s potential lies in its ability to dynamically optimize grid capacity using existing infrastructure. By replacing manual coordination with automated near-instantaneous updates, PowerNow could prevent capacity bottlenecks during peak demand while avoiding costly physical upgrades. If deployed widely, it may lower electricity costs and improve grid reliability for millions of users by freeing up transmission capacity that otherwise goes unused.
This matters for energy access because it could reduce the friction of electricity shortages during high demand periods. However, national-scale impact remains unquantified—the 100-200% figure applies specifically to single lines under current flow conditions, and exact national effects depend on coordinated adoption across adjacent operators. The initiative’s next critical step is securing SPARK funding in October 2026, after which its real-world impact will depend on widespread operator participation.
Source: Utility Dive