Energy transmission lines are critical components of the power grid, transporting electricity from generation facilities to end users. Traditionally, they relied on overhead lines supported by towers and underground cables and required multiple interconnections and substations along the way.

To bypass congested corridors and deliver large amounts of renewable energy more efficiently, two major high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission projects—the Grain Belt Express and Champlain Hudson Power Express—are reshaping the way we think about energy transmission.

Grain Belt Express

The Grain Belt Express will transport up to 5,000 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy from Kansas to utilities across the Midwest. By linking four major grid regions, it enhances reliability and resilience, enabling power flow during emergencies and reducing outage risks. The project is projected to save utilities $11.3 billion over 15 years, with broader regional savings of $51.9 billion, thanks to access to low-cost wind and solar energy. Operating under a merchant transmission model, it imposes no direct cost on local ratepayers, while offering utilities a competitive edge through lower wholesale prices and market flexibility. Regulatory approvals underscore its role in shaping integrated resource planning and accelerating decarbonization.

Champlain Hudson Power Express (CHPE)
CHPE is a 339-mile HVDC line that will run from Canada to New York City delivering 1,250 MW of renewable hydropower. Its fully buried design—60% underwater and 40% underground—minimizes environmental impact and boosts resilience against extreme weather. The $6 billion project supports New York’s goal of 70% renewable energy by 2030, cutting 3.9 million metric tons of CO₂ annually. Scheduled for completion in 2026, CHPE promises $28.6 billion in economic impact over 30 years, 1,400 union jobs during construction and $117 million for habitat restoration.

CDM Smith has been working with the Kiewit Corporation to oversee construction aspects of CHPE, including geotechnical investigations and large-scale boring projects for underground transmission lines.

Microgrids Spread Across United States

Microgrids are spreading across the United States as demand for electricity surges These microgrids combine local power generation (like solar), batteries and smart controls, and can run independently if the main grid fails. The Department of Energy (DOE) expects U.S. microgrid capacity to more than double, reaching about 10 gigawatts (GW) by the end of 2025 (up from 4.4 GW in 2022). 

DOE Details Plans for Fusion

Energy fusion is the process where light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a massive amount of energy, and is the same process that powers the sun and other stars. A DOE roadmap was developed with input from more than 600 scientists, engineers and industry stakeholders to define the key research, materials and technology gaps that must be closed to realize a fusion pilot plant.

Wisconsin Proposes Data Center 'Guardrails’ 
In order to receive tax exemption, data centers would need to meet wage requirements during construction and use 70 percent renewable energy.

Caltrain Ridership up 47% After Electrification

Caltrain, the commuter rail system that serves the San Francisco Peninsula and South Bay area, saw ridership surge nearly 47% since it replaced diesel-powered trains with electric trains, according to a September 22 news release from the public transit operator. Electrification reduced travel times, enabled more frequent train service and increased overall capacity.