Lowering Energy Costs through Grid Modernization Act

In this Act:

(1) Advanced conductor. The term advanced conductor means a transmission conductor that—

(A) provides at least 1.5 times the potential energy carrying capacity of an aluminum conductor, steel-reinforced (in this section referred to as ACSR) transmission conductor;

(B) has a direct current electrical resistance at least 10 percent lower than a traditional ACSR conductor of a similar diameter and weight; and

(C) has at least 25 percent lower thermal sag than an ACSR transmission conductor of similar diameter and weight at maximum operating temperature.

(2) Categorical exclusion. The term categorical exclusion has the meaning given such term in section 111 of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4336e).

(3) Reconductoring project. The term reconductoring project means a project involving the replacement of existing conductors with advanced conductors predominantly within an existing cleared or permitted right-of-way.

(4) Right-of-way. The term right-of-way means an easement, lease, permit, or license to occupy, use, or traverse public or private lands.

(5) Right-of-way optimization project. The term right-of-way optimization project means a project that plans, designs, and constructs electric transmission upgrades using advanced conductors predominantly within an existing cleared or permitted right-of-way.

(6) Secretary. The term Secretary means the Secretary of Energy.