U.S. Rep. Pat Harrigan (R-NC) on July 23 cosponsored bipartisan legislation that would accelerate the modernization of the nation’s electric grid by supporting advanced conductors and related systems. “The future of AI, advanced manufacturing, and American energy dominance all depend on one thing: reliable, affordable electricity,” Rep. Harrigan said. “Our electric grid wasn’t built for the demands we’re placing on it today. 9945, which Rep. Harrigan introduced alongside bill sponsor U.S. Rep. George Whitesides (D-CA), aims to expedite upgrades to America’s electric grid by updating existing transmission infrastructure, reducing permitting delays, and expanding the capacity of the nation’s electric grid. Advanced conductors provide at least 1.5 times the capacity of an ACSR (aluminum conductor, steel-reinforced) transmission conductor.