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Invest in the FutureIt's Time to Invest

The sustained growth in electricity demand requires electric companies to invest in energy efficiency and new power plants, as well as the transmission and distribution systems used to deliver power where it is needed.

The electric power industry is increasing its capital expenditures to keep pace with growing demand. U.S. shareholder-owned electric companies spent $48.4 billion in 2005, $59.9 billion in 2006, $74.1 billion in 2007, and $84.2 billion in 2008 on capital expenditures.

Click to View and Print PDFLooking ahead, the electric power industry expects to continue significant capital investments despite the recent financial crisis that is affecting all business sectors. According to preliminary estimates, 2009 and 2010 capital expenditures will remain very high by historical standards.

Click to View and Print PDFThe industry is making investments in generation, transmission, distribution, efficiency, and the environment.

But building for the future will be difficult. That’s because virtually all types of new generation and transmission are opposed by one public organization or another. Adding to this, the siting and licensing of power plants and transmission lines remain complex, lengthy, and costly processes. And the lead times and costs for building new electric infrastructure continue to increase.

The benefits of investing cannot be overstated. The next power investment wave will provide American homes and businesses with more options, technologies, and greater productivity. And it will enable us all to continue to enjoy the reliable, affordable supply of electricity that we often take for granted.

Learn more about why it’s smart to invest in America’s electric future.

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