As utilities face increasing pressure to modernize the grid while managing costs, having access to practical, data-driven planning tools has never been more important. In this keynote session, experts from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) will introduce two powerful, no-cost planning tools designed to help utilities make more informed transmission and distribution investment decisions.

Attendees will get an inside look at how these advanced analytical tools are helping utilities evaluate infrastructure alternatives, prioritize investments, and plan for a more resilient, reliable, and flexible electric grid. Through real-world examples and utility applications, speakers will demonstrate how these solutions can streamline planning processes and support smarter long-term decision making.

Featured Presentations

REFA: Streamlining Transmission Capacity Upgrade Decisions
Learn how the Reconductoring Economic and Financial Analysis (REFA) tool helps utilities evaluate transmission capacity upgrades by comparing conventional and advanced conductor options. REFA quantifies the long-term financial and economic value of reconductoring projects, helping planners build stronger business cases and make more confident transmission investment decisions.

LODGE: Modernizing Distribution System Planning
Discover the Least-Cost Optimal Distribution Grid Expansion (LODGE) tool, which helps utilities identify the most cost-effective portfolio of distribution system upgrades. By combining economic optimization with advanced power flow modeling, LODGE supports grid needs assessments, non-wires alternatives, distributed energy resource valuation, hosting capacity studies, and interconnection planning. The session will include lessons learned from implementations with three U.S. electric utilities.

Whether you're responsible for transmission planning, distribution strategy, grid modernization, or capital investment planning, this session will provide practical insights and introduce free resources that can immediately support your organization's planning efforts.