Walden, Upton focus on energy infrastructure modernization during subcommittee hearing

The House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Energy Subcommittee convened a hearing on Wednesday that focused on modernizing the energy infrastructure, including technological developments that could revolutionize how energy is generated, delivered and consumed.

U.S. Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI), the chairman of the Energy Subcommittee, said the U.S. energy grid is one of the “engineering marvels of modern history” but has been aging and is under stress.

“As technology continues to change the way we go about our daily lives, we also have to rethink how we generate, deliver and consume electricity,” Upton said. “This could provide opportunities for consumers, both large and small, to save money and be more competitive. We must also ensure that the grid works in ways that optimize and build upon integrating new technologies with existing grid infrastructure when needed.”

U.S. Rep. Greg Walden (R-OR), the chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, outlined the importance of improving the country’s energy infrastructure in response to growing demand for electricity during the hearing.

Walden discussed a meeting he held in Prineville, Oregon a month ago, where a company wanted to locate there and employ hundreds of workers. However, the electrical grid did not have sufficient capacity to support that growth.

“When you finally think you have a chance to grow jobs, and put people to work building things, you discover somehow the electrical grid is not up to snuff,” Walden said, adding that the government needs to do a better job of forecasting future energy infrastructure needs.

Ganesh Bell, the chief digital officer and general manager of software and analytics at General Electric, highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector.

“Given the myriad benefits of applying digital technology to electric power production and distribution — benefits that accrue to consumers, to utilities and to the environment — the federal government should explore ways to encourage the responsible adoption of these digital technologies as a core part of our national electricity strategy,” Bell said.

Terry O’Sullivan, the general president of the Laborers’ International Union of North America, said investment in surface transportation, infrastructure and domestic energy would create millions of jobs.

“This isn’t a Republican issue or Democratic issue; it’s an American issue,” O’Sullivan said. “Every American benefits from good roads, safe bridges, clean drinking water, and affordable energy.”