This edition of Pulse is the first of a three-part series that explores anticipated implications of increasing energy demand related to the electrification of our society including what factors affect demand, what new energy sources are needed, and whether we have the transmission capacity and capability.

After two decades of flat or falling electricity demand, North America’s electricity needs are escalating and are anticipated to continue to rise as large commercial and industrial users increase, and electrification of our economy occurs.  What will consumption increase along with needed energy production mean for our environment? Are we ready to navigate the challenges ahead to satisfy this demand in a reliable and sustainable way?  On this Earth Day we reflect on this question with the first of three Pulse editions, focusing on where and why electricity demand is increasing.