Clean Grid Initiative

The Challenge:

Right now, 2.6 terawatts of clean energy and storage—95% of projects in the interconnection queue—are waiting to connect to the grid. That’s more than the total capacity of the U.S. electricity system. However, limited transmission capacity and flexibility keep projects stuck for years, threatening energy reliability for households and businesses. Demand is rising fast, driven by data centers and reshored factories, while the grid faces mounting risks from extreme weather, cyberattacks, and physical threats. Without faster integration of new power sources, we risk shortages, price spikes, and outages that could turn everyday disruptions into life-threatening disasters.

What Can Be Done:

We need a once-in-a-generation investment in modernizing the U.S. high-voltage transmission grid. This requires an expansive approach to education and outreach beyond the traditional venues and voices involved in electricity regulation to date. Critical pathways entail building broad political will at all levels of government and advancing transmission policy, planning, investment, and development.

How CGI is Meeting the Challenge:

CGI exists to unlock U.S. electric transmission solutions and expand grid capacity for the benefit of all Americans. We are driving towards a national increase in planned grid capacity by more than 50% by 2030, on the way to at least doubling grid capacity by 2050.

We imagine a future where an upgraded electric grid delivers a cleaner, more reliable, resilient energy system that meets the evolving needs of families, communities, and businesses, while supporting economic growth and environmental stewardship.

CGI is a hub for strategic leadership, learning, and ambitious grantmaking to accelerate transmission solutions at the state, regional, and national levels. We marshal resources and expertise to upgrade the grid and modernize America’s electricity system, enabling an affordable, reliable, and resilient energy future.