Utilities Backlog: Electrical Conduit to the Rescue

As the U.S. enters a new era of technological advancement, electric utilities are facing an unprecedented surge in electricity demand. Driven by the rapid growth of data centers, AI, and crypto mining, this surge creates an urgent need to prevent bottlenecks in the power supply chain. Thankfully, innovative electrical conduit solutions are being developed to streamline power projects and strengthen the grid.

Power Struggle: Rising Electricity Demand

The growth of data centers, increased manufacturing, and electrification of various sectors are pushing U.S. energy infrastructure to its limits. Global power use by data centers has tripled in 2023 from 15 terawatt-hours (TWh) to 46 TWh. In the U.S., demand from data centers is projected to soar from 21 gigawatts (GW) in 2023 to over 50 GW by 2030.

This surge has led to a growing backlog in power generation and transmission projects. In one year, the project queue swelled from 2,000 GW to 2,600 GW in 2023. Utilities struggle to connect new projects to the grid swiftly enough to meet this demand, exacerbated by the sheer size and energy needs of data centers.

Power Solutions: Cable-in-Conduit Technology

Amidst these challenges, innovative solutions like Cable-in-Conduit (CIC) technology are emerging to expedite power projects and alleviate the backlog. These solutions help move queued projects, like those involving solar installation, forward, as well as support the growth of data centers.

Streamlining Power Projects with Cable-in-Conduit

Enhanced Cable Protection
CIC safeguards cables within a robust HDPE conduit, minimizing maintenance and providing longevity. This protection is important for maintaining the integrity of power infrastructure and reducing long-term operational costs.

Efficiency and Flexibility
CIC technology integrates preinstalled cables into the conduit, drastically cutting down installation time and costs. Compatible with various construction methods, from traditional trenching to horizontal directional drilling (HDD), CIC offers a versatile solution for diverse power utility projects. At Atkore, we can customize the product to meet precise project installation requirements, which is beneficial for large-scale projects demanding tailored solutions.

Atkore HDPE Cable-in-Conduit Technical Highlights

Atkore’s CIC system includes several key features:

• Specifications: Meets or exceeds standards like ASTM F-2160 and ASTM D-3350.
• UV Protection: Options for standard and advanced UV protection.
• Color Varieties: Available in a range of colors.
• Applications: Ideal for power and communications projects, compatible with various installation techniques.

Leveraging CIC technology helps utilities deploy new power projects faster, reducing backlogs and meeting the growing demand for electricity. This approach not only addresses current challenges but also results in more resilient and efficient power infrastructure.

Building Better Together

The backlog in power generation and transmission projects highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions like Cable-in-Conduit (CIC) technology. Atkore’s CIC system is designed to meet the unique needs of each power and utility project by providing durability and efficiency. Additionally, Atkore offers a complete range of solutions for solar installation projects and data center construction, helping to streamline project timelines. 

As we face the challenges of rising electricity demand, solutions like CIC will be important in building a resilient power infrastructure. To explore how Atkore’s CIC products can streamline your next power project, contact us to get a quote. Let’s build better together.