Advancing Grid Modernization Through Innovation
The Prysmian ARPA-E funding project marks a major step toward modernizing the U.S. power grid. Prysmian Group has secured $4.5 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E). This investment supports Prysmian’s development of advanced underground power grid technology aimed at improving safety, efficiency, and reliability.
GOPHURRS Program Supports the Prysmian ARPA-E Funding Project
This funding is part of ARPA-E’s Grid Overhaul with Proactive, High-speed Undergrounding for Reliability, Resilience, and Security (GOPHURRS) program. The initiative focuses on upgrading America’s aging electrical infrastructure through cost-effective, fast, and safe undergrounding technologies.
“We know that by undergrounding our grid, we can create a more resilient and reliable U.S. power network,” said Dr. Evelyn N. Wang, ARPA-E Director. Her statement highlights the urgency of improving grid reliability while preparing for future energy demands.
Developing a Hands-Free Cable Splicing Machine
Prysmian’s project centers on the creation of a hands-free power cable splicing machine designed to operate within underground vaults. This innovative equipment will allow technicians to perform cable splices remotely, reducing exposure to confined spaces and enhancing workplace safety.
The company aims to lower splicing-related medium-voltage network failures—currently responsible for 60–80% of such issues—to below 5%. In addition, the technology will reduce energy losses caused by splice failures, ensuring more efficient power delivery.
“Our automated splicing machine represents a major advancement in grid modernization,” said Andrea Pirondini, CEO of Prysmian North America. “By addressing the challenges of underground cable maintenance, we’re driving innovation that strengthens safety, resilience, and long-term network performance.”
Collaboration with Con Edison and Exelon
Prysmian will collaborate with Con Edison and Exelon, two leading U.S. investor-owned utilities. Together, these partnerships will help test and refine the underground splicing system for large-scale implementation.
“We remain committed to investing in technologies that advance energy resilience,” said Dr. Srinivas Siripurapu, Chief Innovation Officer at Prysmian and principal investigator for the project. “Through collaboration and innovation, we’re building a sustainable grid ready to meet future challenges.”