NEMA Calls for Broad-Based Legislation that Modernizes America's Electrical Infrastructure

ROSSLYN, Va., Jan. 18, 2018 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) joined business leaders and industry allies at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce America’s Infrastructure Summit to discuss infrastructure modernization and electrification strategies that enhance efficiency, reliability, and safety. The chamber called for actionable ways federal policy-makers, State officials, and the business community can advance infrastructure changes.

“It is past time for Congress and the administration to develop a broad-based infrastructure modernization strategy that includes not only roads and bridges but also ports, water systems, buildings, and the electric grid,” said NEMA President and CEO Kevin J. Cosgriff.

“Achieving a modernized infrastructure requires a call to action for both the public and private sectors to invest in all segments of infrastructure. Plans that utilize advanced, digitized electrification technologies will grow the economy, create new jobs, and improve our competitive position in a global economy,” Cosgriff added. “The package should include federal and state funding, private sector incentives, and a set of innovative policy changes that leverage multiple financing options.”

The electrical grid is one of the nation’s most important infrastructure assets. Every aspect of the U.S. economy and virtually every aspect of modern living depend on the reliable and affordable flow of electricity into homes and businesses. NEMA and its member companies support investments in electrical infrastructure to further modernize the electrical grid and all it serves.

The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) represents nearly 350 electrical equipment and medical imaging manufacturers at the forefront of electrical safety, reliability, and resilience, as well as efficiency and energy security. Our combined industries account for 360,000 American jobs in more than 7,000 facilities covering every state. Our industry produces $106 billion shipments of electrical equipment and medical imaging technologies per year with $36 billion exports.