In November 1965 the Great Northeastern Blackout left 30 million people in the United States without electricity, starkly demonstrating the nation’s growing dependence on electricity and vulnerability to its loss. It marked a watershed for the industry and triggered the creation of the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI).
Although power was largely restored within 12 hours, the ripple effects of public and political scrutiny continued for years. Some in the U.S. Congress were troubled by the nation’s dependence on a fragmented industry for which there was no unified planning. How could thousands of utilities be physically integrated and relied upon to operate as a unified system?
Dr. Chauncey Starr, who served a critical management role in the Manhattan Project, and who was an innovator of commercial nuclear technology and risk management, answered the call by Congress to create an independent research and development organization to support the electricity industry and address major issues. Since its beginnings in 1972, the Electric Power Research Institute’s membership has grown to represent approximately 90% of the electricity generated in the United States and extends to more than 30 countries internationally.
Much has changed in the electricity industry with advances in such technologies as renewable energy, environmental controls, and the smart grid. The opportunities for innovation and the challenges facing utilities are more diverse than ever. But their commitment to objectivity without advocacy remains unchanged, and the need continues for technological innovation, thought leadership and technical expertise. Their research portfolio addresses a range of issues that change with the times and the technology, even as the underlying expectations remain constant for electricity that is affordable, reliable and environmentally responsible.
The Electric Power Research Institute, Inc. conducts research and development relating to the generation, delivery and use of electricity for the benefit of the public. An independent, nonprofit organization, they bring together scientists and engineers as well as experts from academia and the industry to help address challenges in electricity.
Their research provides both short- and long-term solutions that enable the transformation of power systems to be more flexible, resilient and connected. Their ultimate goal is to provide society with safe, reliable, affordable and environmentally responsible electricity.
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