How does ASCE define energy?
Energy infrastructure is defined as the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. These three phases are responsible for the delivery of electricity and other forms of energy to consumers to heat and power homes, businesses, and many other types of consumers. ASCE is focused on ensuring that this infrastructure remains resilient in the face of climate change to provide reliable service to consumers. Energy grid includes transmission, distribution generation, sustainability, etc.
Related ASCE policy statements
- PS 484 – Electricity Generation and Transmission Infrastructure
- PS 489 – Energy Policy
- PS 500 – Resilient Infrastructure Initiatives
- PS 539 – Hydraulic Fracturing
Talking points
- Increasingly harsh weather conditions caused by climate change are increasing pressure on the nation’s electric grid.
- Investment in high voltage transmission lines has increased by billions of dollars in the last decade, and investments in electricity distribution have grown by more than 50 percent over the past two decades.
- The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act made a historic investment of $73 billion in energy and grid infrastructure, including $10 billion to enhance grid resilience and grid modernization, and $2.5 billion to support new investments in transmission infrastructure. ASCE will work to ensure that Congress upholds these investments in the annual appropriations process in the upcoming year.
ASCE advocacy highlights
- June 2, 2022 – ASCE letter to Department of Energy in response to request for information on IIJA Grid Resilience Grant Program
- February 15, 2022 – Statement for the Record to House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis Hearing on Grid Resilience and Reliability
ASCE staff contact
Matthew McGinn - Senior Manager, Government Relations