S&C Electric and Argonne National Laboratory Expand Grid Tech Alliance

The collaboration leverages Argonne’s scientific research capabilities alongside S&C’s manufacturing experience to address critical vulnerabilities in the national power grid. By formalizing this framework, the two organizations plan to streamline the development of technologies focused on enhanced reliability and resilience in an era of shifting energy requirements.

This expansion builds upon existing projects, such as the Department of Energy’s TRAC program, where the teams are currently developing advanced ceramic-polymer insulation. These materials are designed to withstand higher temperatures and electrical stress, potentially extending the operational lifespan of medium- and high-voltage equipment. Ernst Scholtz, Chief Technology Officer at S&C, noted that the alliance creates a dedicated pathway to move promising research directly into the hands of utility operators. Monica Neukomm, director of Argonne’s Electric Grid Program, emphasized that such close ties between industry and national laboratories are essential for deploying the innovative solutions required to support the country’s evolving energy infrastructure.