Overcoming the Challenges of Aging Grid Infrastructure

In this launch episode of Grid Gab, Sarah Szewczyk, Strategic Planner for Grid Modernization at Keysight, shares expert insights on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of energy. With U.S. grid infrastructure averaging 40 years old, aging transformers and transmission lines are being pushed beyond their intended lifespan—creating vulnerabilities that demand urgent action.

Sarah explains how grid modernization is transforming outdated systems into intelligent, digitally enabled networks. From advanced sensing and communication technologies to global standards like IEEE 1547 and IEC 61850, modernization ensures interoperability and reliability as distributed energy resources (DERs) and inverter-based technologies become central to grid operations.

The discussion also explores how grid simulation plays a critical role in planning and optimizing performance under unpredictable conditions, including extreme weather and dynamic loads from data centers and electric vehicles. Simulation tools help utilities model scenarios, improve resilience, and maintain stability in an increasingly complex energy ecosystem.

Finally, Sarah highlights the growing importance of grid cybersecurity. As digitization accelerates and millions of devices connect to utility networks, the threat surface expands. Stronger authentication, secure communications, and continuous testing are essential to protect mission-critical infrastructure from malicious attacks—making cybersecurity a top priority for utilities worldwide.

Tune in to learn how technology, standards, and workforce innovation are converging to build a smarter, safer, and more sustainable grid for the future.

For more information, please visit: https://www.keysight.com/us/en/industry-solutions/grid-and-energy.html