Using more of the grid we’ve already built

Using more of the grid we’ve already built

From Volts by David Roberts

April 1, 2026 · 1h 5m

About this episode

Ian Magruder discusses how better utilization of the existing US power grid can lead to cost savings and support growing demand.

The US power grid runs at about 50% capacity on average — built for its worst day, underutilized every other day. As demand surges from data centers and electrification, utilities are racing to build more infrastructure. But Ian Magruder, who heads the new industry-backed Utilize Coalition, argues there's a cheaper, faster path: better use what we've already built — it will enable faster growth and bring down ratepayer bills, potentially by billions. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.volts.wtf/subscribe

People in this episode

Host: David Roberts

Guest: Ian Magruder

Topics covered

  • power grid
  • infrastructure
  • utilities
  • electrification
  • cost savings

Keywords

  • power grid
  • capacity
  • infrastructure
  • electrification
  • ratepayer bills
  • Utilize Coalition

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Utilize Coalition

Places: US

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